Apparatus and methods for electrosurgical ablation and resection of target tissue

ABSTRACT

An electrosurgical system and method for ablating, resecting, or cutting body structures, with minimal or no damage to tissue adjacent to the treatment site. The system includes an electrosurgical probe having a shaft with a shaft distal end bifurcated to provide first and second arms. First and second electrode supports are disposed on the first and second arms, respectively. At least one active electrode, in the form of a loop or partial loop, is arranged between the first and second electrode supports. A return electrode, also in the form of a loop or partial loop, is arranged between the first and second electrode supports distal to the active electrode. The active and return electrodes are configured to promote substantially high electric field intensities and associated high current densities between the active portion and the target site when a high frequency voltage is applied to the electrodes. These high current densities are sufficient to break down the tissue by processes including molecular dissociation of tissue components. In one embodiment, the high frequency voltage imparts energy to the target site to effect the vaporization and volumetric removal of a layer of tissue without causing substantial tissue damage beyond the layer of tissue ablated. In another embodiment, a fragment of target tissue is removed, with minimal or no damage to surrounding tissue, by a process including the molecular dissociation of tissue components, and the tissue fragment is retrieved for biopsy.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present invention is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/571,343, filed May 16, 2000 (Attorney Docket No. S-1-3), which is a Divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/687,792, filed Jul. 18, 1996 (Attorney Docket No. U-2), now U.S. Pat. No. 5,843,019, which is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 08/561,958, filed on Nov. 22, 1995 (Attorney Docket 16238-000700), now U.S. Pat. No. 5,697,882, which is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 08/485,219, filed on Jun. 7, 1995 (Attorney Docket 16238-000600), now U.S. Pat. No. 5,697,281, which is a continuation-in-part of PCT International Application, U.S. National Phase Ser. No. PCT/US94/05168, filed on May 10, 1994 (Attorney Docket 16238-000440), which was a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 08/059,681, filed on May 10, 1993 (Attorney Docket 16238-000420), which is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 07/958,977, filed on Oct. 9, 1992 (Attorney Docket 16238-000410), now U.S. Pat. No. 5,366,443, which is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 07/817,575, filed on Jan. 7, 1992 (Attorney Docket 16238-000400), the full disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates generally to the field of electrosurgery and, more particularly, to surgical devices and methods which employ high frequency electrical energy to cut, ablate, resect, coagulate, or otherwise modify target tissue. The present invention also relates to apparatus and methods for volumetrically removing tissue from a target site by a cool ablation (Coblation®) procedure involving molecular dissociation of tissue components, and for electrosurgically resecting one or more fragments of target tissue for biopsy.

[0003] The field of electrosurgery includes a number of loosely related surgical techniques which have in common the application of electrical energy to modify the structure or integrity of patient tissue. Electrosurgical procedures usually operate through the application of very high frequency currents to cut or ablate tissue structures, where the operation can be monopolar or bipolar. Monopolar techniques rely on external grounding of the patient, where the surgical device defines only a single electrode pole. Bipolar devices comprise both an active electrode and a return electrode for the application of current between their surfaces.

[0004] Conventional electrosurgical methods generally reduce patient bleeding and trauma associated with tissue cutting operations and improve the surgeon's visibility. These electrosurgical devices and procedures, however, suffer from a number of disadvantages. For example, monopolar electrosurgery methods generally direct electric current along a defined path from the exposed or active electrode through the patient's body to the return electrode, which is externally attached to a suitable location on the patient's skin. In addition, since the defined path through the patient's body has a relatively high electrical impedance, large voltage differences must typically be applied between the active and return electrodes to generate a current suitable for cutting or coagulation of the target tissue. This current, however, may inadvertently flow along localized, non-defined pathways in the body having less impedance than the defined electrical path. This situation will substantially increase the current flowing through these non-defined paths, possibly causing damage to or destroying tissue along and surrounding such pathways.

[0005] Another limitation of conventional bipolar and monopolar electrosurgery devices is that they are not suitable for the precise removal (ablation) of tissue. For example, conventional electrosurgical cutting devices typically operate by creating a voltage difference between the active electrode and the target tissue, causing an electrical arc to form across the physical gap between the electrode and tissue. At the point of contact of the electric arcs with tissue, rapid tissue heating occurs due to high current density between the electrode and tissue. This high current density causes cellular fluids to rapidly vaporize into steam, thereby producing a “cutting effect” along the pathway of localized tissue heating. The tissue is parted along the pathway of vaporized cellular fluid, inducing undesirable collateral tissue damage in regions surrounding the target tissue site.

[0006] In addition, conventional electrosurgical methods are generally ineffective for ablating certain types of tissue, and in certain types of environments within the body. For example, loose or elastic connective tissue, such as the synovial tissue in joints, is extremely difficult (if not impossible) to remove with conventional electrosurgical instruments because the flexible tissue tends to move away from the instrument when it is brought against this tissue. Since conventional techniques rely mainly on conducting current through the tissue, they are not effective when the instrument cannot be brought adjacent to or in contact with the elastic tissue for a long enough period of time to energize the electrode and conduct current through the tissue.

[0007] In an effort to overcome at least some of these limitations of electrosurgery, laser apparatus have been developed for use in arthroscopic and other procedures. Lasers do not suffer from electrical shorting in conductive environments, and certain types of lasers allow for very controlled cutting with limited depth of necrosis. Despite these advantages, laser devices suffer from their own set of deficiencies. Firstly, laser equipment can be very expensive because of the costs associated with the laser light sources. Moreover, those lasers which permit acceptable depths of necrosis (such as eximer lasers, erbium:YAG lasers, and the like) provide a very low volumetric ablation rate, which is a particular disadvantage in cutting and ablation of fibrocartilage, articular cartilage, and meniscal tissue. The holmium:YAG and Nd:YAG lasers provide much higher volumetric ablation rates, but are much less able to control depth of necrosis than are the slower laser devices. The CO₂ lasers provide high rates of ablation and low depth of tissue necrosis, but cannot operate in a liquid-filled cavity.

[0008] Bipolar electrosurgical devices have an inherent advantage over monopolar devices in that the return current path does not flow through the patient beyond the immediate site of application of the bipolar electrodes. Thus, bipolar electrosurgery avoids inadvertent stimulation of nerves and nerve damage in the general vicinity of the treatment site. Avoidance of nerve damage is of importance, for example, when targeting tissue such as the prostate gland, where damage to surrounding nerves could result in impotence and/or incontinence.

[0009] Conventional, monopolar electrosurgical techniques have favored use of non-conductive (electrolyte-free) media, such as glycine solution, as an irrigant and distension medium at the target site. However, electrolyte-free media have the disadvantage of potentially causing adverse physiological effects in the form of water intoxication, for example, if glycine solution enters the circulation via a severed vein. Such water intoxication is due to dilution of serum sodium by the electrolyte-free medium. Bipolar electrosurgical apparatus and methods, according to the present invention, allow the use of isotonic saline as irrigant and distension medium, thereby eliminating problems related to water intoxication of the patient.

[0010] The instant invention provides improved apparatus, systems, and methods for the electrosurgical ablation and cutting of tissue. These systems and methods are capable of selectively cutting and ablating tissue in a precisely controlled manner, with little or no damage to non-target tissue.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0011] The present invention provides a system and method for selectively applying electrical energy to structures within or on the surface of a patient's body. The system and method allow the surgical team to perform electrosurgical interventions, such as ablation and cutting of body structures, with little or no damage to non-target tissue adjacent the treatment site. The system and method of the present invention are particularly useful for surgical procedures within accessible sites of the body that are suitable for electrode loop resection, such as the resection of prostate tissue (e.g., transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP)) and leiomyomas (fibroids) located within the uterus.

[0012] A system according to one aspect of the present invention comprises an electrosurgical probe having a shaft with a proximal end, a distal end, and at least one active electrode at or near the distal end. A connector may be provided at the proximal end of the shaft for electrically coupling the active electrode to a high frequency voltage source. The active electrode includes at least one active portion having a surface geometry configured to promote substantially high electric field intensities and associated current densities between the active portion and the target site when a high frequency voltage is applied to the electrodes. These high electric field intensities and current densities are sufficient to break down the tissue by processes including molecular dissociation or disintegration of tissue components. The high frequency voltage imparts energy to the target site to ablate a layer of tissue without causing substantial tissue necrosis beyond the boundary of the layer of tissue ablated. This ablative process can be precisely controlled to effect the volumetric removal of tissue as thin as a few layers of cells with minimal or no damage to surrounding or underlying tissue structures.

[0013] In an exemplary embodiment, the high electric field intensities at the active portion of the active electrode may be generated by providing an electrically conductive fluid, such as isotonic saline, at the active electrode and/or the target site, and applying a high frequency voltage that is sufficient to vaporize the electrically conductive fluid over at least a portion of the active electrode in the region between the active portion of the active electrode and the target tissue. Since the vapor layer or vaporized region has a relatively high electrical impedance, it minimizes current flow into the electrically conductive fluid. This ionization, under the conditions described herein, induces the discharge of energetic electrons and photons from the vapor layer to the surface of the target tissue. A more detailed description of this cold ablation phenomenon, termed Coblation®, can be found in commonly assigned U.S. Pat. No. 5,683,366 the complete disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0014] At least one return electrode is preferably spaced from the active electrode(s) a sufficient distance to prevent arcing therebetween at the voltages suitable for tissue removal and or heating, and to prevent contact of the return electrode(s) with the tissue. The current flow path between the active and return electrodes may be generated by immersing the target site within electrically conductive fluid (as is typical in arthroscopic and hysteroscopic procedures), or by directing an electrically conductive fluid along a fluid path past the return electrode and to the target site (e.g., in open procedures). Alternatively, the electrodes may be positioned within a viscous electrically conductive fluid, such as a gel, at the target site, and the active and return electrode(s) submersed within the conductive gel. The electrically conductive fluid will be selected to have sufficient electrical conductivity to allow current to pass therethrough from the active to the return electrode(s), and such that the electrically conductive fluid ionizes into a plasma when subject to sufficient electrical energy, as discussed below. In the exemplary embodiment, the conductive fluid is isotonic saline, although other fluids may be selected.

[0015] In a specific embodiment, tissue ablation results from molecular dissociation or disintegration processes. Conventional electrosurgery ablates or cuts through tissue by rapidly heating the tissue until cellular fluids explode, producing a cutting effect along the pathway of localized heating. The present invention volumetrically removes tissue, e.g., cartilage tissue, in a cool ablation process known as Coblation®, wherein thermal damage to surrounding tissue is avoided or minimized. During this process, a high frequency voltage applied to the active electrode(s) is sufficient to vaporize an electrically conductive fluid (e.g., gel or saline) between the electrode(s) and the tissue. Within the vaporized fluid, a plasma is formed and charged particles (e.g., electrons) cause the molecular breakdown or disintegration of tissue components in contact with the plasma. This molecular dissociation is accompanied by the volumetric removal of the tissue. This process can be precisely controlled to effect the volumetric removal of tissue as thin as 10 to 50 microns with minimal heating of, or damage to, surrounding or underlying tissue structures. A more complete description of this Coblation® phenomenon is described in commonly assigned U.S. Pat. No. 5,683,366, the complete disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0016] The present invention offers a number of advantages over conventional electrosurgery, microdebrider, shaver, and laser techniques for removing soft tissue in urogenital, arthroscopic, sinus, or other surgical procedures. The ability to precisely control the volumetric removal of tissue results in a field of tissue ablation or removal that is very defined, consistent, and predictable. In one embodiment, the shallow depth of tissue heating also helps to minimize, or completely eliminate, damage to adjacent, non-target tissue. In addition, small blood vessels within the target tissue may be simultaneously cauterized and sealed as the tissue is removed to continuously maintain hemostasis during a procedure. This increases the surgeon's field of view, and shortens the length of the procedure. Moreover, since the present invention allows for the use of electrically conductive fluid (contrary to prior art bipolar and monopolar electrosurgery techniques), isotonic saline may be used during the procedure. Isotonic saline is a suitable electrolytic medium for irrigation and/or distension of the treatment site because it transparent to visible light, and generally exerts no adverse physiological effect on the patient.

[0017] According to one aspect of the invention, one or more surfaces of the active electrode may be configured to provide high electric field intensities and current densities thereat, upon application of a high frequency voltage. Suitable electrode surface geometries for producing sufficiently high electric field intensities to reach the threshold conditions for vapor layer formation may be obtained by having sharp edges and/or corners at the active portion of the active electrode(s). Alternatively, the electrode(s) may be specifically designed to increase the edge/surface area ratio of the active portion. Electrode shapes according to the present invention can include the use of formed wire (e.g., by drawing round wire through a shaping die) to form electrodes with a variety of cross-sectional shapes, such as square, rectangular, L or V shaped, or the like. Electrode edges may also be created by removing a portion of the elongate metal electrode to reshape the cross-section. For example, material can be removed along the length of a solid or hollow wire electrode to form D or C shaped wires, respectively, with edges facing in the cutting direction. Alternatively, material can be removed at closely spaced intervals along the electrode length to form transverse grooves, slots, threads or the like along the electrodes.

[0018] Additionally or alternatively, the active electrode surface(s) may be modified through chemical, electrochemical or abrasive methods to create a multiplicity of surface asperities on the electrode surface. The asperities on the surface of the active electrode(s) promote localized high current densities which, in turn, promote bubble nucleation at the site of the asperities whose enclosed density (i.e., vapor density) is below the critical density to initiate ionization breakdown within the bubble. For example, surface asperities may be created by etching the active electrodes with etchants having a pH less than 7.0 or by using a high velocity stream of abrasive particles (e.g., grit blasting) to create asperities on the surface of an elongated electrode.

[0019] In one embodiment, the invention provides an electrosurgical probe which includes a return electrode spaced proximally from the active electrode. The return electrode may be integral with the shaft of the probe, or it may be separate from the shaft (e.g., arranged on a separate liquid supply instrument). In an exemplary embodiment, the return electrode defines a fluid pathway for flow of electrically conductive fluid therethrough. The fluid is directed past the surface of the return electrode and over the active electrode to thereby provide a return current flow path between the target tissue and the return electrode. A more complete description of methods and apparatus for generating a liquid current flow path between the active and return electrodes can be found in U.S. Pat. No. 5,697,281, the complete disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0020] In another aspect of the invention, the active electrode will also have a “non-active” portion or surface to selectively reduce undesirable current flow from the non-active portion or surface into tissue or surrounding electrically conductive fluids (e.g., isotonic saline, blood or blood/non-conducting irrigant mixtures). Typically, the “non-active” electrode portion will be coated with an electrically insulating material. This can be accomplished, for example, with plasma deposited coatings of an insulating material, thin-film deposition of an insulating material (e.g., SiO₂ or Si₃N₄) using evaporative or sputtering techniques, dip coating, or by providing an electrically insulating support member to electrically insulate a portion of the external surface of the electrode. The electrically insulated non-active portion of the active electrode(s) allows the surgeon to selectively ablate tissue, while minimizing necrosis or ablation of surrounding non-target tissue or other body structures.

[0021] In one representative embodiment, an electrosurgical resecting instrument is provided having a resecting electrode on the distal end of a shaft and coupled to a high frequency voltage source. The resecting electrode is configured to fit within a working end of a resectoscope (discussed below) and to remove small portions of tissue (e.g., chips of tissue). Preferably, the resecting electrode has an elongate body with first and second ends disposed near the distal end of the shaft to form a loop electrode for removing tissue portions and for providing visibility through the loop (i.e., with an optical viewing scope positioned within the resectoscope). The loop electrode may have a variety of shapes, e.g., V-shaped, square or the like. In one embodiment, the loop electrode has a semi-circular-shape to facilitate rapid resection of tissue chips from the target site.

[0022] The elongate body of the loop electrode includes an active portion with a surface geometry configured to promote substantially high electric field intensities and associated current densities between the active portion and the target site when a high frequency voltage is applied to the electrode. Preferably, the electric field intensities generated around the active portion of the loop electrode are sufficient to reach the threshold conditions for vapor layer formation between the electrode and the tissue, as discussed above. To that end, the active portion of the loop electrode can be formed with edges, corners, surface asperities or a combination thereof, to maximize the electric field intensities around the active electrode.

[0023] In one configuration, the loop electrode will have a semi-circular cross-section formed by, for example, removing material from a round wire or hollow cylinder to form two or more edges on one side of the loop electrode. In this configuration, the edges are typically oriented substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the shaft so that they will face the tissue as the shaft is moved axially in the cutting direction. This orientation facilitates formation of the vapor layer between the electrode edges and the tissue. The opposite or non-active side of the electrode may include an insulating layer to selectively reduce undesirable current flow from the non-active portion into tissue or surrounding electrically conductive fluids.

[0024] In one embodiment, the elongate body of the resecting loop electrode lies in a plane that defines an obtuse angle with the shaft. In this way, the resecting loop electrode defines an obtuse angle with the usual cutting direction as the surgeon moves the resecting instrument parallel to the surface of the target tissue. In this configuration, the resecting loop electrode will define an angle of about 110° to 160° with the shaft, and preferably about 120° to 140°. This orientation increases the portion of the resecting loop electrode that is in contact with the tissue rather than exposed to electrically conductive fluid. Consequently, it significantly improves the ease of initiating the requisite conditions for formation of the vapor layer to ablate and cut tissue. In addition, this resecting loop electrode orientation increases the duration of electrode contact with tissue, thereby improving hemostasis of the resected tissue.

[0025] The resecting loop instrument of the present invention will usually include a return electrode for completing the current path between the active electrode and the tissue site. The return electrode may be formed on the shaft of the resecting loop electrode, on the resectoscope, or on a separate instrument. In one configuration, the return electrode is formed on a separate return electrode oversheath that includes an electrically conducting hollow tube sized to receive the resecting loop shaft so that the active loop electrode extends beyond the distal end of the hollow tube. The return electrode tube is insulated on its inner and outer surfaces except for an exposed portion that is spaced proximally from the active electrode to generate a current flow path therebetween. The return electrode oversheath may include a fluid path for allowing electrically conductive fluid to flow over the exposed portion to facilitate the formation of the current flow path.

[0026] In an alternative embodiment of the resecting loop instrument, the return electrode sheath is insulated on its inner and outer surfaces except for an exposed portion that extends beyond (i.e., overhangs) the distal end of the sheath. The exposed portion generates a current flow path between the resecting loop electrode and the return electrode. If the return electrode is used in conjunction with and positioned over an insulated resecting loop shaft, the return electrode oversheath will be insulated on its outer surface only.

[0027] In an exemplary embodiment, the return electrode oversheath includes a proximal hub for connecting the oversheath to a conventional or specialized resectoscope, such as those commercially available from Circon/ACMI of Stamford, Conn. (under the tradename of “USA Elite System Resectoscope”) and Olympus Corporation of Lake Success, N.Y. (under the tradename of “OES Resectoscope”, Model No. A-2012). In this configuration, the return electrode tube is sized to receive the resectoscope shaft, which usually includes a viewing lumen to provide viewing of the surgical site. The proximal hub will also include a suitable electrical connector for electrically coupling the return electrode to an electrosurgical generator.

[0028] In another aspect, the invention provides an electrosurgical probe including an elongate body and a distal electrode assembly. The elongate body includes a first shaft at its distal end, wherein the first shaft is bifurcated to form a first arm and a second arm. A first electrically insulating electrode support and a second electrode support are disposed on the first and second arms, respectively. According to one aspect of the invention, the first shaft includes a first bend and a second bend. The bifurcated configuration of the first shaft, together with the first and second bends, facilitates viewing of the electrode assembly, from a proximal location during use of the probe. The electrode assembly includes an active electrode and a return electrode, the latter located distal to the former. In one embodiment, each of the first and second electrode supports includes an axial portion and a curved portion, wherein the return electrode and the active electrode are suspended between the curved portions.

[0029] In one embodiment, the surface area of the return electrode is greater than that of the active electrode. According to one aspect of the invention, a filament of the return electrode is longer than a filament of the active electrode. According to another aspect of the invention, the circumference or perimeter of the return electrode filament is greater than the circumference or perimeter of the active electrode filament. In one embodiment, the active electrode lies in a first plane, and the return electrode lies in a second plane substantially parallel to the first plane, wherein the first plane is arranged at an acute angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the probe. According to another aspect of the invention, the return electrode filament is separated from the active electrode filament by an electrode gap, which remains substantially constant over the entire length of the active electrode filament.

[0030] In another aspect, an electrosurgical probe of the invention includes an attachment unit, coupled to the elongate body, wherein the attachment unit is adapted for removably attaching the probe to another surgical device. In one aspect, the attachment unit is adapted for attaching the probe to an endoscope, such that the probe is aligned with various components, such as an introducer sheath or an optical unit, of the endoscope. In one embodiment, the probe may be removably attached to a resectoscope via the attachment unit such that a user of the probe can view the electrode assembly, and points distal thereto, from an eyepiece of the resectoscope, wherein the eyepiece is located proximal to the probe proximal end.

[0031] In another aspect, the invention provides a method for ablation and/or resection of a target tissue, in which tissue is volumetrically removed via a cool ablation mechanism known as Coblation®, which involves molecular dissociation of tissue components. In one embodiment of the invention, there is provided a method for resecting and harvesting a tissue fragment for tissue analysis, wherein the tissue fragment is removed via electrosurgical ablation at a temperature in the range of about 45° C. to 90° C.

[0032] In another aspect, the invention provides a method for transurethral resection of the prostate (e.g., TURP) in which prostate tissue is electrosurgically removed using a probe of the present invention. During such a method, the probe may be manipulated in a plurality of different ways, depending on the condition of the patient and the treatment called for, according to different embodiments of the invention. For example, according to one embodiment, the probe may be manipulated such that the electrode assembly exhibits a gentle brushing motion (e.g., reciprocal motion) with respect to a surface of the target tissue, whereby a relatively thin layer of tissue is vaporized during each stroke. In another embodiment, the electrode assembly may be applied more forcefully against the target tissue in a reciprocating motion, whereby one or more fragments or chips of tissue are electrosurgically resected, typically each proximal stroke of the probe resecting a single fragment of tissue. Tissue fragments removed in this manner may be optionally retrieved for biopsy. In a third embodiment, the probe distal end may be inserted into the target tissue, perhaps to a depth of a few mm., or more, in order to remove one or more tissue fragments to be harvested for biopsy. Of course, all three, or any two, of the modes of manipulating the probe, as outlined above, can be combined in a single procedure. Typically, in each embodiment, the target tissue is ablated (vaporized or resected) via a cool ablation mechanism involving plasma-induced molecular dissociation of tissue components. In another aspect, the invention includes a method for ablation or resection of uterine tissue, such as polyps, leiomyomas, fibroids, and the like, in which the probe distal end is advanced towards the target tissue via the cervix of the uterus, and the target tissue is electrosurgically removed via the cool ablation mechanism (known as Coblation®) involving molecular dissociation of tissue components to yield low molecular weight (e.g., gaseous) ablation by-products.

[0033] A further understanding of the nature and advantages of the invention will become apparent by reference to the remaining portions of the specification and drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0034]FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a representative electrosurgical system including an electrosurgical resectoscope, an electrically conductive fluid supply and an electrosurgical power supply constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention;

[0035]FIG. 2 is an enlarged perspective view of the resectoscope of FIG. 1 incorporating a return electrode oversheath and a resecting loop assembly according to the present invention;

[0036]FIG. 3 illustrates an introducing sheath of the resectoscope of FIG. 2;

[0037]FIG. 4 illustrates the return electrode oversheath of FIG. 2;

[0038]FIG. 5 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the proximal portion of the resectoscope of FIG. 2, illustrating the electrical connection with the return electrode oversheath;

[0039]FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a proximal portion of the resectoscope in FIG. 2, illustrating the electrical connection with the resecting loop assembly;

[0040]FIG. 7 is a top section view of a proximal portion of the resectoscope;

[0041]FIG. 8A illustrates the resecting loop assembly of FIG. 2;

[0042]FIG. 8B illustrates an alternative resecting loop assembly incorporating a return electrode;

[0043]FIG. 9 is a section of a distal portion of the resecting loop assembly of FIG. 5, illustrating a resecting loop electrode;

[0044]FIG. 10A is a front view of the resecting loop electrode;

[0045] FIGS. 10B-10D illustrate alternative geometries for the resecting loop electrode;

[0046]FIG. 11 is an enlarged view of a resecting loop electrode;

[0047]FIG. 12 is a schematic view illustrating the resecting loop electrode of FIG. 9 resecting a tissue portion at a target site;

[0048]FIG. 13 is an alternative embodiment of the resecting loop electrode of FIG. 9;

[0049]FIG. 14 is a transverse cross-sectional view of the resecting loop electrode of FIG. 9;

[0050]FIGS. 15A and 15B are transverse cross-sectional views of alternative loop electrodes according to the present invention;

[0051] FIGS. 16A-16E, 17A, 17B, 18A, 18B, 19, 20A and 20B illustrate alternative electrode configurations according to the present invention;

[0052]FIG. 21 illustrates a method of transurethral resection of prostate tissue with the electrosurgical system of FIG. 1;

[0053]FIG. 22 is an enlarged view illustrating the resection of a prostate tissue portion with the resecting loop electrode of the present invention;

[0054] FIGS. 23A-23E illustrate another embodiment of the resecting loop electrode incorporating two active electrodes;

[0055]FIGS. 24A and 24B illustrate a resecting loop electrode incorporating two active electrodes connected to a common lead;

[0056]FIGS. 25A and 25B illustrate a resecting loop electrode with three active electrodes;

[0057]FIG. 26 is a partial side cross-section of an alternative embodiment of the return electrode oversheath of FIG. 4;

[0058]FIG. 27 shows a side view of an electrosurgical probe including a first shaft located at the probe distal end, according to another embodiment of the invention;

[0059]FIG. 28 is a perspective view of the first shaft of the probe of FIG. 27;

[0060]FIG. 29 shows an enlarged view of the distal end of the probe of FIG. 27;

[0061]FIG. 30A is an end view of an electrode assembly of an electrosurgical probe, according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0062]FIG. 30B schematically represents a first shaft and electrode assembly as seen along the lines 30B-30B of FIG. 30A;

[0063]FIG. 30C schematically represents an active electrode and a return electrode as seen along the lines 30C-30C of FIG. 30A;

[0064] FIGS. 31A-E schematically represent different shapes of an active electrode and a return electrode of an electrosurgical probe, according to various embodiments of the invention;

[0065]FIG. 32 shows a side view of a probe distal end in which the electrode support extends preferentially along the active electrode, according to another embodiment of the invention;

[0066]FIG. 33A is a side view of an attachment unit disposed on a shaft of an electrosurgical probe, according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0067]FIG. 33B is an end view of the attachment unit of FIG. 33A, taken along the lines 33B-33B;

[0068]FIG. 34A schematically represents a number of steps involved in a method of retrieving a fragment of tissue from a target tissue or organ, according to another embodiment of the invention; and

[0069]FIG. 34B schematically represents a number of steps involved in a method of surgically removing a fragment of target tissue and vaporizing a portion of the target tissue, according to another embodiment of the invention.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0070] The present invention provides a system and method for selectively applying electrical energy to a target location within or on a patient's body, such as solid tissue or the like, including procedures within confined spaces such as the spaces around the articular cartilage between the femur and tibia and spaces between adjacent vertebrae in the patient's spine, and procedures that involve resection of relatively larger pieces of tissue. For convenience, the remaining disclosure will be directed primarily to the resection of prostate tissue, and the cutting, shaping or ablation of meniscal tissue located adjacent articular cartilage and soft tissue covering vertebrae. However, it will be appreciated that the system and method can be applied equally well to procedures involving other tissues of the body, as well as to other procedures including open surgery, laparoscopic surgery, thoracoscopic surgery, and other endoscopic surgical procedures. Examples of such procedures include oral procedures, including gingival tissues and mucosal tissues located in the mouth or epidermal tissue on the outer skin, dermatological procedures, such as the treatment of tumors, abnormal tissues, and the like or, canalizing or boring channels or holes through tissue, such as the ventricular wall during transmyocardial revascularization procedures. Other procedures include laminectomy/disketomy procedures for treating herniated disks, decompressive laminectomy for stenosis in the lumbosacral and cervical spine, posterior lumbosacral and cervical spine fusions, treatment of scoliosis associated with vertebral disease, foraminotomies to remove the roof of the intervertebral foramina to relieve nerve root compression and anterior cervical and lumbar diskectomies. The present invention is also useful for resecting tissue within accessible sites of the body that are suitable for electrode loop resection, such as the resection of leiomyomas (fibroids) located within the uterus, as well as prostate tissue, and other diseased or hypertrophied tissue of a patient.

[0071] In addition, the present invention is particularly useful in procedures where the tissue site is flooded or submerged with an electrically conducting fluid, such as isotonic saline. Such procedures, e.g., arthroscopic surgery and the like, are described in detail in co-pending PCT International Application, U.S. National Phase Ser. No. PCT/US94/05168, filed on May 10, 1994, the complete disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0072] The electrosurgical probe will comprise a shaft having a proximal end and a distal end which supports one or more active electrode(s). The shaft may assume a wide variety of configurations, with the primary purpose being to mechanically support the active electrode(s) and permit the treating physician to manipulate the electrode(s) from a proximal end of the shaft. Usually, the shaft will be a narrow-diameter rod or tube, more usually having dimensions which permit it to be introduced into a body cavity, such as the arthroscopic cavity, through an associated trocar or cannula in a minimally invasive procedure, such as arthroscopic, laparoscopic, thoracoscopic, and other endoscopic procedures. Thus, the shaft will typically have a length of at least 5 cm for oral procedures and at least 10 cm, more typically being 20 cm, or longer for endoscopic procedures. The shaft will typically have a diameter of at least 1 mm and frequently in the range from 1 to 10 mm. In the case of open surgical procedures or procedures on the external portions of the patient's body (e.g., the skin), the shaft may have any suitable length and diameter that would facilitate handling by the surgeon.

[0073] The shaft may be rigid or flexible, with flexible shafts optionally being combined with a generally rigid external tube for mechanical support. Flexible shafts may be combined with pull wires, shape memory actuators, and other known mechanisms for effecting selective deflection of the distal end of the shaft to facilitate positioning of the electrode(s) The shaft will usually include a plurality of wires or other conductive elements running axially therethrough to permit connection of the electrode(s) to a connector at the proximal end of the shaft. Specific shaft designs will be described in detail in connection with the figures hereinafter.

[0074] The present invention may use a single active electrode or an electrode array distributed over a distal contact surface of a probe. In the case of an electrode array, the array usually includes (but is not limited to) a plurality of independently current-limited and/or power-controlled electrodes to apply electrical energy selectively to the target tissue while limiting the unwanted application of electrical energy to the surrounding tissue and environment resulting from power dissipation into surrounding electrically conductive liquids, such as blood, normal saline, and the like. The electrodes may be independently current-limited by isolating the electrodes from each other and connecting each electrodes to a separate power source that is isolated from the other electrode terminals. Alternatively, the electrodes may be connected to each other at either the proximal or distal ends of the probe to form a single wire that couples to a power source.

[0075] In an exemplary embodiment, each individual electrode in the electrode array is electrically insulated from all other electrodes in the array within the probe and is connected to a power source which is isolated from each of the other electrodes in the array or to circuitry which limits or interrupts current flow to the electrode when low resistivity material (e.g., blood or electrically conductive saline irrigant) causes a lower impedance path between the common electrode and the individual electrode terminal. The isolated power sources for each individual electrode may be separate power supply circuits having internal impedance characteristics which limit power to the associated electrode terminal when a low impedance return path is encountered, may be a single power source which is connected to each of the electrodes through independently actuatable switches, or may be provided by independent current limiting elements, such as inductors, capacitors, resistors and/or combinations thereof. The current limiting elements may be provided in the probe, connectors, cable, controller or along the conductive path from the controller to the distal tip of the probe. Alternatively, the resistance and/or capacitance may occur on the surface of the active electrode(s) due to oxide layers which form selected electrode terminals (e.g., titanium or a resistive coating on the surface of metal). A more complete description of a system and method for selectively limiting current to an array of isolated electrode terminals can be found in commonly assigned U.S. Pat. No. 5,697,882, the complete disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0076] It should be clearly understood that the invention is not limited to electrically isolated electrode terminals, or even to a plurality of electrode terminals. For example, the array of active electrode terminals may be connected to a single lead that extends through the probe shaft to a power source of high frequency current. Alternatively, the probe may incorporate a single electrode that extends directly through the probe shaft or is connected to a single lead that extends to the power source.

[0077] In the case of a single electrode, the invention may also use current limiting means to apply electrical energy selectively to the target tissue while limiting the unwanted application of electrical energy to the surrounding tissue. In this embodiment, the electrode may be connected to current limiting elements or to circuitry which limits or interrupts current flow to the electrode when low resistivity material (e.g., blood or electrically conductive saline irrigant) causes a lower impedance path between the common electrode and the electrode. The current limiting elements or circuitry may be configured to completely interrupt or modulate current flow to the electrode, for example, when a certain percentage of the electrode surface is in contact with low resistivity material. In one embodiment, the current flow will be modulated or completely interrupted when, for example, a large portion of the electrode surface is exposed to fluids and, therefore, not in contact with the target tissue. In this manner, current can be selectively applied to the target tissue, while minimizing current flow to surrounding fluids and adjacent non-target tissue structures.

[0078] According to the present invention, the active electrode(s) will have an active portion or surface with surface geometries shaped to promote high electric field intensity and associated high current density along the leading edges of the active electrode(s). Suitable surface geometries may be obtained by creating electrode shapes that include preferential sharp edges, or by creating asperities or other surface roughness on the active surface(s) of the electrodes. Electrode shapes according to the present invention can include the use of formed wire (e.g., by drawing round wire through a shaping die) to form electrodes with a variety of cross-sectional shapes, such as square, rectangular, L or V shaped, or the like. Electrode edges may also be created by removing a portion of the elongate metal electrode to reshape the cross-section. For example, material can be removed along the length of a round wire or hollow, cylindrical wire to form D or C shaped electrodes, respectively, with edges facing in the cutting direction. Alternatively, material can be removed at closely spaced intervals along the length of the electrode to form transverse grooves, slots, threads or the like along the electrode.

[0079] Additionally or alternatively, the active electrode surface(s) may be modified through chemical, electrochemical or abrasive methods to create a multiplicity of surface asperities on the electrode surface. These surface asperities will promote high electric field intensities between the active electrode surface(s) and the target tissue to facilitate ablation or cutting of the tissue. For example, surface asperities may be created by etching the active electrodes with etchants having a pH less than 7.0, or by using a high velocity stream of abrasive particles (e.g., grit blasting) to create asperities on the surface of an elongated electrode.

[0080] Additionally or alternatively, the active electrode surface(s) may be provided by assembling alternating layers of electrically conductive members (i.e., electrodes) and electrically insulating spacers. By way of example, an active electrode having multiple circular edges may be constructed using alternating layers of concentric, thin metal washers (e.g., titanium, stainless steel or the like), having outside diameters D. The washers may be separated by thin concentric insulating spacers (e.g., anodized aluminum, silicone rubber, ceramic, glass, glass ceramic, plastic, etc.) having an outside diameter D′ which is less than D so that the edges of the metal washers extend beyond the insulating spacers. The electrode assembly can be constructed by placing the metal washers over a central, electrically conductive mandrel, which provides for electrical communication between the power source and the multiple metal “washer” shaped electrodes. In this arrangement, the electrodes are preferably at the same source polarity since they are in contact with a common electrical lead (i.e., mandrel).

[0081] Alternatively, the electrode assembly may include a split mandrel having opposite polarities such that adjacent metal washers are at opposite polarities to effect one or more pairs of bipolar washer shaped electrodes. In this configuration, the metal electrodes may have any shape suitable for the intended ablation or resection of tissue, e.g., square, circular, hexagonal octagonal, triangular, etc. In addition, the perimeter of the thin metal electrode may be stamped, machined, notched or otherwise modified to increase the electric field intensity at the working (outer) surface of the metal electrode. Also, the metal electrodes (e.g., metal washers) may be coated with an electrically insulating layer (e.g., silicone rubber, ceramic, glass or porcelain) of sufficient thickness to provide spacing between adjacent electrode members, whether the electrode assembly is monopolar or bipolar. The insulating coating may extend up to the perimeter of the metal electrode (e.g., washer), or it may be recessed from the perimeter to expose a greater portion of the edges of the electrodes.

[0082] In another aspect of the invention, the active electrodes will also have a “non-active” portion or surface(s) to selectively reduce undesirable current flow from the non-active portion or surface(s) into tissue or surrounding electrically conductive fluids (e.g., isotonic saline, blood or blood/non-conducting irrigant mixtures). The “non-active” electrode surface(s) may be coated with an electrically insulating material, such as silicone elastomer. This can be accomplished, for example, with plasma deposited coatings of an insulating material, thin-film deposition of an insulating material (e.g., SiO₂ or Si₃N₄) using evaporative or sputtering techniques, dip coating or by providing an electrically insulating support member to electrically insulate a portion of the external surface of the electrode.

[0083] The method of the present invention comprises positioning an electrosurgical probe adjacent the target tissue so that at least one active electrode is brought into at least close proximity to the target site. A return electrode is positioned within an electrically conductive fluid, such as isotonic saline, to generate a current flow path between the target site and the return electrode. High frequency voltage is then applied between the active and return electrodes through the current flow path created by the electrically conductive fluid in either a bipolar or monopolar manner. The probe may then be translated, reciprocated or otherwise manipulated to cut the tissue or effect the desired depth of ablation.

[0084] The current flow path may be generated by submerging the tissue site in an electrically conductive fluid (e.g., during arthroscopic surgery and the like), or by directing an electrically conductive fluid along a fluid path past the return electrode and to the target site to generate the current flow path between the target site and the return electrode. This latter method is particularly effective in a dry environment (i.e., the tissue is not submerged in fluid), such as open, endoscopic or oral surgery, because the electrically conductive fluid provides a suitable current flow path from the target site to the return electrode. A more complete description of an exemplary method of directing electrically conducting fluid between the active and return electrodes is described in commonly assigned U.S. Pat. No. 5,697,281, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. In one embodiment, the active electrode(s) are disposed at the distal end of the probe and the return electrode is spaced from the active electrode and enclosed within an insulating sheath. This arrangement minimizes exposure of the return electrode to surrounding tissue and minimizes possible shorting of the current between the active and return electrodes. In endoscopic procedures, the probe may be passed through a cannula while viewing of the operative site is provided through the use of an endoscope disposed in a separate cannula. Alternatively, the probe may be attached to, or integral with, an endoscope.

[0085] In the method of the present invention, a high frequency voltage is applied between the active portion of the active electrode(s) and the return electrode to develop high electric field intensities in the vicinity of the target tissue. The high electric field intensities lead to electric field induced molecular breakdown of target tissue through molecular dissociation (rather than thermal evaporation or carbonization of tissue). Applicant believes that the tissue structure is volumetrically removed through molecular disintegration of larger organic molecules into smaller molecules and/or atoms, such as hydrogen, oxides of carbon, hydrocarbons and nitrogen compounds. This molecular disintegration completely removes the tissue structure, as opposed to dehydrating the tissue material by the removal of water from within the cells of the tissue, as is typically the case with electrosurgical desiccation.

[0086] The high electric field intensities may be generated by applying a high frequency voltage that is sufficient to vaporize the electrically conductive fluid over at least a portion of the active electrode(s) in the region between the distal tip of the active electrode and the target tissue. Since the vapor layer or vaporized region has a relatively high electrical impedance, it minimizes current flow into the electrically conductive fluid. This ionization, under the conditions described herein, induces the discharge of energetic electrons and photons from the vapor layer and to the surface of the target tissue. A more detailed description of this phenomenon can be found in commonly assigned U.S. Pat. No. 5,697,882 the complete disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0087] The voltage applied between the return electrode and the active electrode(s) will be at high or radio frequency, typically between about 5 kHz and 20 MHz, usually being between about 30 kHz and 2.5 MHz, and more typically being between about 50 kHz and 400 kHz. The RMS (root mean square) voltage applied will usually be in the range from about 5 volts to 1000 volts, typically being in the range from about 50 volts to 800 volts, and more typically being in the range from about 100 volts to 400 volts. These frequencies and voltages will result in peak-to-peak voltages and currents that are sufficient to vaporize the electrically conductive fluid and, in turn, sufficient to create the conditions within the vaporized region which result in high electric fields to ablate tissue. According to one aspect of the invention, the vaporized electrically conductive fluid is in the form of a plasma. Typically, the peak-to-peak voltage will be in the range of from about 200 to 2000 volts, usually in the range of 300 to 1600 volts, and more typically in the range of 500 to 1200 volts.

[0088] A preferred power source of the present invention delivers a high frequency voltage selectable to generate average power levels ranging from tens of milliwatts to tens of watts up to hundreds of watts per electrode, depending on the number of electrodes, the target tissue being ablated, the rate of ablation desired or the maximum allowed temperature selected for the probe tip. Typically, during ablation processes performed according to the instant invention, the target tissue is exposed to a temperature in the range of from about 45° C. to 90° C., and more typically from about 60° C. to 75° C. The power source allows the user to select the voltage level according to the specific requirements of a particular open surgery, oral surgery, dermatological procedure, percutaneous, endoscopic, or other surgical procedure.

[0089] The power source may be current limited or otherwise controlled so that undesired heating of electrically conductive fluids or other low electrical resistance media does not occur. In one embodiment, current limiting inductors are placed in series with each independent electrode terminal, where the inductance of the inductor is in the range of 10 uH to 50,000 uH, depending on the geometry and size of the electrode(s), the electrical properties of the target tissue, the desired ablation rate and the operating frequency. Alternatively, capacitor-inductor (LC) circuit structures may be employed, as described previously in co-pending PCT application No. PCT/US94/05168, the complete disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Additionally, current limiting resistors may be selected. Preferably, these resistors will have a large positive temperature coefficient of resistance so that, as the current level begins to rise for any individual electrode in contact with a low resistance medium (e.g., saline irrigant), the resistance of the current limiting resistor increases significantly, thereby minimizing the power delivery from the electrode into the low resistance medium (e.g., saline irrigant).

[0090] As an alternative to such passive circuit structures, regulated current flow to each electrode terminal may be provided by a multi-channel power supply. A substantially constant current level for each individual electrode terminal within a range which will limit power delivery through a low resistance path, e.g., isotonic saline irrigant, and would be selected by the user to achieve the desired rate of cutting or ablation. Such a multi-channel power supply thus provides a substantially constant current source with selectable current level in series with each electrode terminal, wherein all electrodes will operate at or below the same, user selectable maximum current level. Current flow to all electrode terminals could be periodically sensed and stopped if the temperature measured at the surface of the electrode array exceeds user-selected limits. Particular control system designs for implementing this strategy are well within the skill of the art.

[0091] Yet another alternative embodiment involves the use of a power supply for energizing one or more electrodes having use of one or more channels of user-selectable voltage levels. The channels would incorporate an active control mechanism for limiting current levels below a pre-selected maximum level. The pre-selected maximum current level depends on the size and configuration of the electrode(s), and may be “factory” set or user selectable. Alternatively, an indicator device may be included in the probe (e.g., a resistor having a resistance value which corresponds to the maximum current level appropriate to a specific electrode configuration) such that the power supply can (1) first measure the indicator device value (e.g., measure the resistance of the indicator) contained within the probe; and (2) then set the maximum current level which corresponds to that resistance value. In this manner, a range of probe designs having greatly differing electrode size(s) and configuration(s) can be energized since the power supply will automatically adjust the maximum current level to correspond to each particular electrode size and configuration.

[0092] Yet another alternative involves the use of one or several power supplies which allow one or several electrodes to be simultaneously energized and which include active control means for limiting current levels below a preselected maximum level. In this arrangement, only one or several electrodes would be simultaneously energized for a brief period. Switching means would allow the next one or several electrodes to be energized for a brief period. By sequentially energizing one or several electrodes, the interaction between adjacent electrodes can be minimized (for the case of energizing several electrodes positioned at the maximum possible spacing within the overall envelope of the electrode array) or eliminated (for the case of energizing only a single electrode at any one time). As before, a resistance measurement means or device may be employed for each electrode prior to the application of power wherein a (measured) low resistance (below some preselected level) will prevent that electrode from being energized during a given cycle. By way of example, the sequential powering and control scheme of the present invention would function in a manner similar to an automobile distributor. In this example, an electrical contact rotates past terminals connected to each spark plug. In this example, each spark plug corresponds to the exposed surface of each of the electrodes. In addition, the present invention includes the means to measure the resistance of the medium in contact with each electrode and cause voltage to be applied only if the resistance exceeds a preselected level.

[0093] During the surgical procedure, the distal end of the probe or the active electrode(s) may be maintained at a small distance away from the target tissue surface. This small spacing allows for the continual resupply of electrically conductive fluid into the interface between the active electrode(s) and the target tissue surface. This continual resupply of the electrically conductive fluid helps to ensure that the thin vapor layer will remain between the active electrode(s) and the tissue surface. In addition, dynamic movement of the active electrode(s) over the tissue site allows the electrically conductive fluid to cool the tissue surrounding recently ablated areas to minimize thermal damage to this surrounding tissue. In one embodiment, the active electrode(s) may be spaced about 0.02 to 2 mm from the target tissue, and typically about 0.05 to 0.5 mm from the target tissue, during the ablation process. One method of maintaining this space is to translate and/or rotate the probe transversely relative to the tissue, i.e., using a light brushing motion, to maintain a thin vaporized layer or region between the active electrode and the tissue. Of course, for aggressive ablation of tissue, or for removal of a tissue fragment for biopsy, the probe may be advanced axially so that the active electrode(s) penetrate the target tissue to a suitable depth. Similarly, if coagulation of a deeper region of tissue is necessary (e.g., for sealing a bleeding vessel imbedded within the tissue), it may be desirable to press the active electrode(s) against the tissue to effect joulean heating therein.

[0094] In one embodiment of the invention, the active electrode or the electrode array will have an exposed length in the range from about 2.5 to 12.5 mm. With electrode lengths within this range, applicant has found that current-limiting inductors having inductance values of about 0 to 100 uH, preferably about 25 to 50 uH, are suitable for establishing the requisite conditions for selective ablation described above (i.e., the generation of sufficient electric field intensities to form a vapor layer in the electrically conductive fluid and to induce the discharge of energy through the vapor layer to ablate tissue while precisely controlling the extent of ablation and minimizing damage to non-target tissue. Of course, the active electrode(s) may have a substantially smaller exposed length away from the probe than described above (on the order of about 0 to 0.5 mm). This configuration is described in commonly assigned U.S. Pat. No. 5,697,882, the complete disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0095] Referring to the drawings in detail, wherein like numerals indicate like elements, an electrosurgical system 11 is shown constructed according to the principles of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 1, electrosurgical system 11 generally comprises an electrosurgical resectoscope 10 incorporating a resecting loop assembly 12 with an active electrode (not shown in FIG. 1), and a return electrode oversheath 16 circumscribing a portion of the resecting loop assembly 12. The resectoscope 10 is connected to a power supply 28 for providing high frequency voltage to the active electrode and a liquid source 21 for supplying electrically conducting fluid 50 to a target tissue (see FIGS. 21 and 22). A liquid supply tube 15 removably couples liquid source 21, (e.g., a bag of fluid elevated above the surgical site or having a pumping device), with return electrode oversheath 16. A manual control valve 17 may also be provided between the proximal end of return electrode oversheath 16 and supply tube 15 to allow the surgical team to regulate the flow of electrically conductive fluid 50.

[0096] Power supply 28 has a selector 30 for varying the applied voltage level. Power supply 28 also includes a mechanism for energizing the active electrode of resectoscope 10 through the depression of a first pedal 39 in a foot pedal 37 positioned close to the user. The foot pedal 37 will usually include a second pedal 38 for remotely adjusting the energy level applied to active electrode 14 (FIG. 2). In an exemplary configuration, first pedal 39 will apply a higher voltage level suitable for cutting and ablating tissue, and second pedal 38 will apply a lower voltage level suitable for coagulating and sealing tissue, such as a transected blood vessel (discussed in further detail below). A specific design of one power supply which may be used with the electrosurgical probe of the present invention is described in parent application PCT US 94/051168, the full disclosure of which has previously been incorporated herein by reference.

[0097] Referring to FIGS. 2-11, resectoscope 10 represents a conventional or specialized resectoscope that is adapted for use with resecting loop assembly 12 and return electrode oversheath 16, according to the present invention. Existing resectoscopes useful with the present invention can be found, for example, under the trade names of USA Elite System Resectoscope from Circon/ACMI of Stamford, Conn. and OES Resectoscope from Olympus Corporation of Lake Success, N.Y. Loop assembly 12 and oversheath 16 may also be used without a resectoscope. In this configuration, the surgeon may use other means for viewing the surgical site, such as a separate endoscope. Resectoscope 10 generally includes a proximal handle 64, and an introducing sheath 60 (FIG. 3) having a hollow, tubular shaft 62 for axially receiving loop assembly 12. Sheath 60 also includes a proximal hub 98 for connecting sheath 60 to handle 64 and return electrode oversheath 16 (discussed in detail below). As shown in FIG. 2, handle 64 includes a viewing assembly 66, an irrigant/suction assembly 68 and an actuation assembly 70 for axially reciprocating loop assembly 12 relative to shaft 62.

[0098] Referring to FIGS. 2, 6 and 7, actuation assembly 70 includes a coupling housing 72 having an outer knob or thumbscrew 74 that can be tightened to secure a proximal connector leg 76 of loop assembly 12 to an electrically conducting inner sleeve member 78 of coupling housing 72 (FIG. 7). Sleeve member 78 electrically couples leg 76 to a resecting loop terminal 80 (FIG. 6), which can be removably coupled to power supply 28 to provide power to loop assembly 12 (discussed in further detail below). Coupling housing 72 is axially translatable relative to introducing sheath 60 so that resecting loop assembly 12 can be axially translated relative to the distal end 94 of tubular shaft 62 (see FIG. 3). As shown in FIG. 2, resectoscope 10 will usually include a finger loop 82 and a thumb loop 84 suitably connected to housing 72 for reciprocating housing 72 and loop assembly 12 relative to the distal end 94 of shaft 62. Of course, it will be recognized that other control means for axially reciprocating loop assembly 12 can be utilized with the present invention, such as rotatable knobs, trigger buttons, and the like.

[0099] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, electrosurgical system 11 will preferably include a return electrode oversheath 16 for completing the current path between active electrode 14 and power supply 28 (discussed in detail below). It should be made clear, however, that the present invention is not limited to a bipolar modality and, may utilize a monopolar mode. In this configuration, return electrode oversheath 16 is not required. Instead, voltage is applied between an active electrode 14 and a dispersive electrode plate externally attached to the patient's skin such that electric current flows from active electrode 14, through the patient's body, to the dispersive electrode.

[0100] Return electrode oversheath 16 generally includes an electrically conducting, hollow shaft 86 coupled to a proximal housing 88 with a suitable epoxy adhesive, for example. The inner and outer surfaces of shaft 86 are covered with an electrically insulating layer 90 over the entire length of shaft 86 except for an exposed portion 92 at the shaft distal end, which remains exposed to provide a current path from active loop assembly 12 (discussed below). Electrically insulating layer 90 may comprise a heat shrinkable tubing material, such as Kynar™, or it may be a deposited coating, such as Parylene™, polytetrafluoroethylene, polyimide, flourinated ethylene-propylene or the like. The provision of the electrically insulating layer 90 over return electrode shaft 86 prevents direct electrical contact between the return electrode and any adjacent body structure or the surgeon. Such direct electrical contact between a body structure (e.g., tendon) and an exposed return electrode member could result in unwanted heating of the structure at the point of contact causing necrosis. If return electrode oversheath 16 is being used with an electrically insulating resectoscope sheath (e.g., a plastic tubular sheath), the inner surface of shaft 86 may remain exposed (i.e., electrically insulating layer 90 may be omitted).

[0101] Return electrode shaft 86 will have an inner diameter large enough to slide shaft 86 over tubular shaft 62 of introducing sheath 60 (FIG. 5). Distal end portion 94 of shaft 62 is introduced through an opening 96 in proximal housing 88 and axially delivered through return electrode shaft 86 until housing 88 abuts against proximal hub 98 of introducing sheath 60. Return electrode oversheath 16 further includes a fastener, such as a thumbscrew 100, to secure return electrode oversheath 16 to introducing sheath 60. As shown in FIG. 5, return electrode shaft 86 has an opening 102 aligned with thumbscrew 100 so that the thumbscrew 100 can engage tubular shaft 62 of introducing sheath 60. Thumbscrew 100 preferably comprises an electrically insulating material, such as Ultem™, to minimize electrical shock to the surgeon during use of resectoscope 10.

[0102] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 5, resectoscope 10 is electrically connected to power supply 28 with cable 34, which is removably connected to power supply 28 by a power supply connector plug 26. Cable 34 includes an adaptor 130 that branches into a first lead 132 which is removably connected via plug 134 to a return electrode terminal 136, e.g., via a minibananna plug, and a second lead 138 which is removably connected via plug 140 to resecting loop terminal 80 (FIGS. 6, 21). As shown in FIG. 5, return electrode plug 134 includes a recessed electrical receptacle 142 which permits plug 134 to be inserted into a cavity 144 of return electrode housing 88. This provides a fluid-tight seal between housing 88 and plug 134 to minimize the possibility of electrical shock to the surgeon or patient if the controller is energized prior to the complete connection of plug 134 and electrode terminal 136.

[0103] As mentioned above, handle 64 of resectoscope 10 will also usually include a viewing assembly 66 and an irrigant/suction assembly 68. As shown in FIG. 2, viewing assembly 66 includes a hub 150, a telescopic lumen 152 extending through shaft 62 of introducing sheath 60 and an eyepiece 154 coupled to lumen 152 to permit viewing of the target site by the physician. Alternatively, a camera (not shown) may be attached to the proximal end of hub 150 to allow display of the surgical site on a video monitor. A fiberoptic light source (not shown) is typically attached to hub 150 to illuminate the target site. Irrigant/suction assembly 68 includes proximal hub 98 of introducing sheath 60, and a connector 160 extending from hub 98 and coupled to supply line 15 for introducing a sterile irrigant, typically isotonic saline, to the surgical site. Connector 160 is fluidly coupled to an axial lumen 162 within shaft 62 (see FIG. 3). Fluid may also be withdrawn through axial lumen 162 or a second lumen (not shown) within shaft 62 to withdraw unwanted or excess fluids from the surgical site and to facilitate the surgeon's view.

[0104] Referring to FIGS. 8-11, an exemplary resecting loop assembly 12 according to the present invention will now be described. Loop assembly 12 generally includes an electrically insulating hollow shaft 180 with proximal connection leg 76 and a distal active electrode assembly 182. Active electrode assembly 182 includes a bifurcated support member 184 having a pair of hollow arms 186, 188 extending from a distal end 190 of shaft 180. A hollow, electrically insulating tubular member 192 extends from each arm 186, 188 of bifurcated support member 184, and a tubular resecting loop electrode 194 extends from each tubular member 192. Tubular members 192 will comprise a suitable insulating material (e.g., a silicone rubber, ceramic or glass material, such as alumina, zirconia and the like). Such support materials have one or more of the following characteristics: good electrically insulating properties, high flexural modulus, resistance to carbon tracking, biocompatibility, and high melting point.

[0105] Alternatively, a resecting loop assembly 12′ may incorporate the return electrode so that only a single instrument is required for bipolar resection of tissue (i.e., a return electrode oversheath is not required). By way of example (see FIG. 8B), resecting loop assembly 12′ according to the present invention includes an electrically conducting shaft 180′ covered with an outer electrically insulating layer 181. Shaft 180′ includes a distal exposed portion 183 for completing the current return path with active electrode assembly 182, and a proximal exposed portion 185 for connecting return electrode 180 to power supply 28. An electrically insulating tubular member 192 insulates shaft 180′ from resecting loop electrode 194 and exposed portion 185 from proximal connection leg 76.

[0106] As shown in FIGS. 8A, 8B, and 10A, resecting loop electrode 194 comprises an elongate loop body 196 having first and second ends 198, 199 coupled to and extending within tubular members 192. Resecting loop electrode 194 is preferably composed of a corrosion resistant, electrically conductive metal or alloy, such as platinum, titanium, tantalum, tungsten, stainless steel, nickel and cobalt-based alloys and the like. It should be understood that loop electrode 194 may have configurations other than that described above and shown in FIGS. 8A-11. Preferred requirements for electrode 194 are that: (1) the electrode fits within the available space within the working end of a resectoscope, which generally includes fiber optic or “glass rod” optical viewing and lighting means, articulating resecting means and irrigant supply ports; (2) the electrode is shaped and sized to allow the surgeon to view the tissue site; and (3) the electrode is configured to cut chips or small portions of tissue from the target site. Thus, the “loop” electrode may have a variety of shapes, such as semi-circular, square, triangular, rectangular, or multi-sided geometry (see FIGS. 10B-10D, for example). A semi-circular or U-shaped loop electrode (e.g., FIG. 10A) has the advantage that it easily fits within the cylindrical bore of conventional resectoscopes. In addition, this shape tends to facilitate good visibility for the surgeon, and it produces rapid resection of tissue.

[0107] Loop electrode 194 may also comprise a plurality of active electrodes that are either coupled together or electrically isolated from each other (discussed below). In the latter case, electrosurgical system 11 may include current limiting elements or circuitry to independently limit current to the electrodes based on the impedance between each active electrode and the return electrode, as described above.

[0108] Referring to FIGS. 8A and 9, electrical connections 200, such as lead wires, metal tubes or the like, extend through one or both arms 186, 188 of support member 184 and shaft 180 to electrically couple one or both ends 198, 199 of resecting loop electrode 194 with connector leg 76. Electrical connections 200 are coupled to loop electrode 194 and connector leg 74 using crimping, soldering, welding or other suitable methods. Electrical connections 200 are preferably covered with an insulating sheath (not shown) except for exposed distal and proximal portions of connections 200 that are coupled to loop electrode 194 and leg 74, respectively.

[0109] As shown in FIG. 11, according to one embodiment, resecting loop electrode 194 preferably has a substantially C-shaped transverse cross-section along its entire length to form first and second ends 204, 206 that define a slot 208 therebetween. Ends 204, 206 each define relatively sharp edges 210 that promote high electric field intensities around ends 204, 206 to enhance the tissue cutting capabilities of resecting loop assembly 12. Ends 204, 206 and edges 210 of loop electrode 194 form an active portion of electrode that promotes sufficiently high electric field intensities sufficient to reach the threshold conditions for formation of a vapor layer in the electrically conductive liquid, as discussed above. For surgical procedures involving tissue resection, resecting loop electrode 194 is preferably oriented so that ends 204, 206 are generally parallel to the cutting direction (i.e., facing the target tissue, see FIG. 12). This orientation facilitates the formation of a vapor layer between ends 204, 206 and the target tissue and directs the energy induced from the vapor layer to the target tissue. As shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, loop electrode 194 further includes a non-active portion 212 on the opposite side from ends 204, 206. Non-active portion 212 preferably defines a relatively smooth surface to reduce the electric field intensities around portion 212, thereby minimizing undesirable current flow into fluids and surrounding tissue. In addition, non-active portion 212 may include an insulating layer (not shown) to further minimize the possibility of undesirable tissue damage. This configuration allows the surgeon to more selectively ablate tissue at the target site.

[0110] In an exemplary configuration, loop electrode 194 is formed from a hollow tube that is filed or ground down to form a semi-circular, U-shaped or C-shaped transverse cross-section. The filing operation creates four relatively sharp corners 210 along the length of the bipolar loop electrode 194, as shown in FIG. 11. In order to maximize the spacing between the inner electrode edges 210 while maintaining the strength of loop electrode 194, the thin metal wall tubing is filed or ground up to, but not exceeding the diametral line of the tubing. Usually, loop electrode 194 will have an outside diameter of about 0.005 to 0.03 inch and a wall thickness of about 0.003 to 0.01 inch. In a representative embodiment, the resecting or active loop electrode comprises a 0.013 diameter molybdenum wire loop and the return electrode comprises a 0.020 molybdenum wire loop (see embodiments below).

[0111]FIGS. 15A and 15B illustrate alternative embodiments of bipolar loop electrode 194. As shown in FIG. 15A, loop electrode 194 may have a D-shaped cross-section having a substantially planar active surface 300. In this embodiment, electrode 194 is preferably fabricated from a solid round wire that is shaped (e.g., ground or filed), substantially as described above for the D-shaped electrode configuration, to form electrode edges 210. As shown in FIG. 15B, electrode 194 may also have a double slotted configuration that is generally formed by grinding both sides of a hollow tube. Alternatively, loop electrode 194 may be constructed from a formed wire (e.g., a round wire that has been drawn through a shaping die) shaped to create corners on the periphery of the extended loop electrode surface. FIGS. 16A-16E illustrate examples of electrode cross-sectional shapes that may be used with the present invention.

[0112]FIGS. 17A, 17B, 18A, 18B and 19 illustrate other alternatively shaped electrodes having transverse grooves or slots formed therein to promote high electric field intensities. Referring to FIGS. 17A and 17B, loop electrode 302 comprises an elongate body 304 having a plurality of spaced, transverse slots 306 (FIG. 17A) or grooves 308 (FIG. 17B) formed therein. The electrode edges 210 of slots 306 and grooves 308 will generally form the “active” portion of the electrode, while an opposing, substantially planar surface 310 forms the “non-active” portion of the electrode 302. An insulating layer (not shown) may be formed over surface 310 to prevent undesirable current flowing from this surface 310 to adjacent tissue. This allows the surgeon to selectively channel relatively high intensity electric fields towards the target site, while minimizing damage to non-target tissue surrounding the target site. Alternatively, electrode 302′ may include grooves 312 on both sides so that both sides of electrode 302′ are “active”, as shown in FIG. 18A by virtue of the electrode edges 210 formed by the grooves or slots 312.

[0113] Referring to FIGS. 18B and 19, electrode 314 may have a “necklace” shape, in which electrode members are pre-shaped, perforated and then placed on an elongate support member (similar to beads on a necklace). Referring to FIG. 18B, one embodiment of electrode 314 includes an elongate support member 316, which may comprise an electrically conducting or insulating material, and a plurality of electrode disks 318 having an inner hole for receiving support member 316. Electrode disks 318 may be in contact with each other or longitudinally spaced from each other. In the latter configuration, support member 316 will be electrically conducting to electrically connect the disks 318 with each other. Referring to FIG. 19, each electrode disk 318 may be separated from each other by an insulating spacer 320. In this embodiment, the electrodes 318 may be electrically isolated from each other so that current limiting elements can be utilized to minimize undesirable current flow into surrounding fluids, as described above.

[0114]FIGS. 20A and 20B illustrate further alternative embodiments of the loop electrode according to the present invention. As shown in FIG. 20A, a formed wire has been shaped (e.g., by a shaping die) to form a “V” shape electrode 330. Since the ends 331, 332 of the “V” will promote high electric field intensities, they will preferably face in the cutting direction. In addition, an insulating layer 334 is formed onto the backside 335 of the “V”. Similarly, FIG. 20B illustrates a “C” shaped electrode 336 having ends 337, 338 facing the cutting direction and an insulating layer 340 covering an opposite side 342 of electrode 336.

[0115] As shown in FIGS. 8A and 9, resecting loop electrode 194 is aligned with a plane forming an obtuse angle with the longitudinal axis of shaft 180. The obtuse angle is usually about 110 to 170 degrees, preferably about 120 to 150 degrees. During tissue resection, applicant has found that this orientation significantly facilitates initiating the requisite conditions for forming the vapor layer and inducing the discharge of energy therefrom. In this orientation, a greater fraction of loop electrode 194 is in direct contact with the tissue so that a greater fraction of the applied energy is directed to the tissue to be resected and a greater length of the resection loop is employed to cut the same depth of tissue. Thus, the duration of electrode contact with tissue is at least 30%, and usually at least 40%, greater at the 120? to 150? orientation than at the 90? orientation (see FIG. 13). This results in improved hemostasis of the resected tissue because there is more time to seal transected blood vessels with each pass of the resecting loop. In addition, a smaller fraction of loop electrode 194 is exposed to electrically conducting fluid surrounding the tissue, which minimizes undesirable current flow through this fluid.

[0116] Referring now to FIGS. 21 and 22, a method for applying electrical energy to a target tissue in the patient's body will now be described. In particular, an exemplary procedure for treating an enlarged prostate 222 with electrosurgical system 11 will be described. Introducing sheath 60, return electrode oversheath 16, and resecting loop assembly 112 are introduced transurethrally to the urethra 226 within prostate 222. In the monopolar mode, return electrode oversheath 16 will not be introduced, and a dispersive electrode (not shown) will be externally attached to the patient's skin. While viewing the region via eyepiece 154, voltage can be applied from power supply 28 (see FIG. 1) between resecting loop electrode 194 and the exposed portion 92 of return electrode oversheath 16. Preferably, the applied voltage levels will be above about 500 volts (peak-to-peak). The cutting and resection of prostatic tissue 222 is achieved by engaging resecting loop electrode 194 against the prostatic tissue or positioning loop electrode 194 in close proximity to the prostatic tissue while simultaneously applying voltage from power supply 28 and axially displacing loop electrode 194 towards the distal end of introducing sheath 60 as illustrated by resection vector 299 in FIG. 22.

[0117] To complete the current path between the exposed portion 92 of the return electrode and resecting loop electrode 194, electrically conducting irrigant (e.g., isotonic saline) will preferably be delivered from liquid supply 21 through connector 160 along a liquid path between return electrode oversheath 16 and tubular shaft 62 to the target site. Alternatively, the site may already be submerged in liquid (e.g., arthroscopic procedures), or the liquid may be delivered through another instrument. The electrically conductive fluid provides a pathway for electrical current flow between prostatic tissue 222 and exposed portion 92, as illustrated by the current flux lines 360 in FIG. 22. When a voltage difference is applied between loop electrode 194 and exposed portion 92, high electric field intensities will be generated at the shaped edges 210 of electrode 194 to cause ablation of tissue 222.

[0118] Referring now to FIG. 22, the design of the surface geometry of resecting loop electrode 194 promotes high current densities at the surface of electrode 194, especially at the shaped edges. In contrast, the current density decreases rapidly with distance from the surface of resecting loop electrode 194. Since the length of the exposed portion 92 of return electrode oversheath 16 will be about 2 to 4 cm, the surface area of exposed portion 92 will be about 5 to 10 cm². In contrast, the surface area of the resecting loop electrode 194 is about 0.003 cm². As a result, the current density at exposed portion 92 is 1,700 to 3,400 times smaller than that at resecting loop electrode 194, resulting in current density levels below the threshold of injury to living tissue.

[0119] The surgeon can usually effect an efficient cutting motion by simultaneously coagulating smaller vessels transected during the resection of the tissue (see FIG. 22). There may, however, be occasions during the resection of tissue in which larger blood vessels are transected and do not become simultaneously sealed (coagulated) by the higher current densities which surround loop electrode 194. In such situations, resecting loop electrode 194 may be used specifically for coagulating and sealing a transected blood vessel by engaging the tissue at the locus of the bleeding vessel and lightly applying pressure while simultaneously applying a lower voltage level, i.e., a voltage level which is below the threshold for effecting cutting or resection of tissue. Typically, an applied voltage level of less than 500 volts (peak-to-peak), preferably less than 400 volts (peak-to-peak) will be sufficient to effect coagulation of transected blood vessels without cutting or resection of tissue. This dual mode of operation of resecting loop 112 is preferably accomplished by providing dual footpedal 37, which includes a cutting mode pedal 39 and a coagulation mode pedal 38. Alternatively, system 11 may be switched between the two modes using voltage control buttons 30 (FIG. 1).

[0120] During the course of the tissue resection procedure, telescopic lumen 152 (FIG. 21) and the attached return electrode oversheath 16 can be withdrawn from introducing sheath 160 of resectoscope 10 by releasing a mechanical locking member 350. Following the withdrawal of the working elements of resectoscope 10, the open lumen of introducing sheath 60 can be used to remove one or more tissue fragments 352 (FIG. 22) formed during the resection process.

[0121] FIGS. 23A-23E illustrate another embodiment of a resecting loop assembly 12′ incorporating two electrodes 560, 562 which are electrically isolated from direct contact with each other by an insulating spacer 564. Electrodes 560, 562 may comprise solid wires, hollow tubes, or any of the cross-sectional shapes and configurations discussed above to afford regions of high electric field intensity. Similar to the above embodiments, the proximal ends of electrodes 560, 562 extend from electrically insulating tubular members 192, which extend from hollow arms 186, 188 of a bifurcated support member 184. As shown in FIGS. 23D and 23E, electrodes 560, 562 are each connected to an electrically conducting lead 566, 567 which, in turn, connect to first and second poles 568, 570, respectively, of the output of power supply 28. With this electrical arrangement, current (illustrated by current flux lines 572) flows between electrodes 560, 562 when a radiofrequency voltage difference is applied between poles 568, 570 of power supply 28. The current effects tissue cutting, ablation, shrinkage and/or coagulation in these regions between electrodes 560, 562. A return electrode is not utilized in this arrangement and, therefore, return electrode oversheath 16 is not necessary.

[0122]FIGS. 24A and 24B illustrate another embodiment of a resecting loop assembly 12″ in which electrodes 560, 562 are each connected to an electrically conducting lead wire 574, 576 which are connected to a common lead 578. The distal end of common lead 578 is connected to a first pole 568 of power supply. In this electrical arrangement, return electrode oversheath 16 (see FIG. 4) will be coupled to second pole 570 of power supply 28. Thus, when electrodes 560, 562 are in contact with tissue and/or electrically conducting fluid and an RF voltage difference is applied between poles 568, 570, electrical current flows independently between electrode 560 and exposed portion 92 of return electrode oversheath 16 and between electrode 562 and exposed portion 92 of return electrode oversheath 16 (as illustrated by current flux lines 580, 582, respectively).

[0123]FIGS. 25A and 25B illustrate yet another embodiment of a resecting loop assembly 12′″ incorporating three electrodes 600, 602, 604 assembled to form loop electrode 194′. Lead wires electrically couple electrodes 600, 602, 604 to power supply 28. One of the lead wires 608 extends through, and is electrically insulated from, electrode 600, as shown in FIG. 25B. Electrodes 600-604 are mechanically spaced and electrically insulated from each other by insulating spacers 612, 614. Similar to previous embodiments, electrodes 600 and 604 extend from electrically insulating tubular members 192, which extend from hollow arms 186, 188 of a bifurcated support member 184.

[0124]FIG. 25B illustrates the current flux lines 620, 622 for one electrical arrangement for connected electrodes 600-604 to power supply 28. In this arrangement, electrodes 600, 604 are connected to first pole 568 of power supply 28 (see FIGS. 24D and 24E) in a manner similar to that described above for resecting loop assembly 12′ and electrode 602 is coupled to second pole 570 of power supply 28 (i.e., exposed portion 92 of return electrode oversheath 16 is not utilized in this arrangement). When electrodes 600-604 are in contact with tissue and/or electrically conductive fluid and an RF voltage difference is applied between poles 568, 570, electrical current flows between electrodes 600 and 602 and between electrodes 604 and 602, as illustrated by current flux lines 620, 622, respectively.

[0125]FIG. 25A illustrates the current flux lines 624, 626, 628 for another electrical arrangement for resecting loop assembly 12′″. In this arrangement, electrodes 600, 602 and 604 are independently connected to first pole 568 of power supply 28 and return electrode oversheath 16 is coupled to second pole 570 (see FIGS. 24A and 24B). As shown, current flows independently between each electrode 600, 602 and 604 and exposed portion 92 of return electrode oversheath 16.

[0126] As will be evident to those skilled in the art, the foregoing example of resecting loop assembly 12′″ can be extended to configurations having four or more electrodes.

[0127]FIG. 26 illustrates another embodiment of electrosurgical system 11 in which a return electrode oversheath 16′ is completely covered with inner and outer insulating layers 606, 680 except for an exposed portion 610 at the distal end of return electrode oversheath 16′ that extends beyond the inner insulating layer 606. The exposed portion 610 generates a current flow path 612 between resecting loop electrode 12 and exposed portion 610 of return electrode oversheath 16′. If return electrode oversheath 16′ is used in conjunction with and positioned over an insulated resecting loop shaft (not shown), the return electrode oversheath 16′ will be insulated on its outer surface only. Alternatively, the sheath of the resectoscope can be replaced with a sheath having the insulation features and return electrode arrangement shown in FIG. 26 such that an additional oversheath return electrode is not required.

[0128]FIG. 27 shows a side view of an electrosurgical probe 700 including a probe proximal end 700 a, a probe distal end 700 b, and an elongate body portion 710, according to another embodiment of the invention. Elongate body portion 710 includes first, second, and third shafts 730, 740, and 750, respectively. First shaft 730 includes a first bend 736 and a second bend 738. First shaft 730 is bifurcated to provide a first arm 732 and a second arm 734 (FIG. 28). Typically, first and second bends 736, 738 are distal to the point of bifurcation. Probe 700 further includes first and second electrode supports 722 a, 722 b, respectively, arranged on the distal end of first and second arms 732, 734 (e.g., FIG. 28). First and second electrode supports 722 a, 722 b each comprise an electrically insulating material, such as a silicone rubber, a ceramic, or a glass. Typically, first and second electrode supports 722 a, 722 b each include a curved portion 723 (e.g., FIG. 29). In one embodiment, curved portion 723 forms an acute angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of probe 700. An active electrode 724 and a return electrode 726 are disposed between curved portion 723 of each of first and second electrode supports 722 a, 722 b. Active electrode 724 is located proximal to return electrode 726. The configuration of probe 700, including the bifurcation of first shaft 730 together with first and second bends 736, 738, allows a user to view active and return electrodes 724, 726, and points distal thereto, from a substantially axial location proximal to probe proximal end 700 a. During use of probe 700, elongate body 710 may be at least partially encased within a sheath, which may be electrically insulating. According to one aspect of the invention, a handle (not shown in FIG. 27) may be affixed at probe proximal end 700 a.

[0129] Typically, active electrode 724 and return electrode 726 are arranged at an acute angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of probe 700 (e.g., FIG. 29). In a specific configuration, active electrode 724 is in the form of a loop or partial loop and lies in a first plane, while return electrode 726 is also in the form of a loop or partial loop and lies in a second plane distal to the first plane, wherein the first and second planes are parallel or substantially parallel to each other. Active electrode 724 and return electrode 726 may each have various shapes, such as semicircular or U-shaped (FIGS. 31A-E). Typically, each of active electrode 724 and return electrode 726 comprises a length of a refractory, electrically conducting wire. For example, each of active electrode 724 and return electrode 726 may be composed of a metal such as molybdenum, platinum, iridium, titanium, tantalum, tungsten, stainless steel, copper, nickel, and the like, or their alloys. In one embodiment, at least one of active electrode 724 and return electrode 726 comprises an alloy of platinum with another metal such as tungsten, iridium, or molybdenum. The composition of active electrode 724 and return electrode 726 is at least to some extent a matter of design choice. For example, to increase the coagulation efficiency of electrode assembly 720, active electrode 724 may comprise molybdenum or a molybdenum alloy, while return electrode 726 may comprise stainless steel. As another example, to increase the durability or wear resistance of electrode assembly 720, one or more of active electrode 724 and return electrode 726 may be coated with a material such as chromium or titanium nitride.

[0130] Again with reference to FIG. 27, probe 700 typically includes a bipolar connector unit 770 for coupling active electrode 724 and return electrode 726 to opposite poles of a high frequency power supply (e.g., FIG. 1). In one embodiment, bipolar connector unit 770 is disposed on the proximal portion of elongate body 710, e.g., on third shaft 750. In one embodiment, probe 700 further includes an attachment unit 760 for removably attaching probe 700 to another instrument, such as a resectoscope, or other endoscope. In a specific configuration, attachment unit 760 comprises a clamp affixed to elongate body 710 at second shaft 740 (FIGS. 33A-B).

[0131] Typically, probe 700 has a total length in the range of from about 8 to 18 inches, more typically from about 10 to 12 inches. First shaft 730 typically has a length in the range of from about 1 to 3 inches more typically from about 1 to 2 inches. Third shaft 750 typically has a length in the range of from about 4 to 8 inches, more typically from about 5 to 7 inches. Second shaft 740 is typically intermediate in length between first shaft 730 and third shaft 750. The diameter of each arm 732, 734 of first shaft 730 is typically in the range of from about 0.025 to 0.080 inches, more typically from about 0.040 to 0.060 inches. The configuration of active and return electrodes 724, 726, combined with the relatively narrow diameter of first and second arms 732, 734, allows probe distal end 700 b to penetrate a target tissue with relative ease upon application of a suitable voltage between active electrode 724 and return electrode 726. Second shaft 740 is usually wider than third shaft 750. Second shaft 740 typically has a diameter in the range of from about 0.050 to 0.120 inches, more typically from about 0.060 to 0.100 inches. Third shaft 750 typically has a diameter in the range of from about 0.040 to 0.100 inches, more typically from about 0.050 to 0.080 inches. In one embodiment, third shaft 750 comprises a low friction polymer, such as polytetrafluoroethylene, or polyethylene.

[0132]FIG. 28 shows a perspective view of first shaft 730 of probe 700, in which first arm 732 and second arm 734 each include a first bend 736 and a second bend 738, wherein the latter is distal to the former. Typically, the distal portion of first and second arms 732, 734 are arranged parallel or substantially parallel to each other. As shown, first and second electrode supports 722 a, 722 b are arranged axially on the distal terminus of first and second arms 732, 734, respectively. Each of first and second electrode supports 722 a, 722 b are curved downwards to define curved portion 723 (e.g., FIG. 29). Active electrode 724 and return electrode 726 are suspended between first and second electrode supports 722 a, 722 b. Typically, each of first and second arms 732, 734 has a diameter in the range of from about 0.020 to 0.100 inches, and more typically from about 0.040 to 0.060 inches.

[0133]FIG. 29 shows probe distal end 700 a in side view, having first bend 736 at an angle ∀ away from the longitudinal axis of probe 700, and second bend 738 at the same or substantially the same angle ∀ towards the longitudinal axis of probe 700. Typically, the angle ∀ is in the range of from about 10° to 35°, and more typically from about 15° to 25°. First and second electrode supports 722 a, 722 b extend distally from first and second arms 732, 734. Each of first and second electrode supports includes an axial portion 721 in communication with curved portion 723. Active electrode 724 and return electrode 726 emanate from each curved portion 723 (e.g., FIGS. 30A, 30B). In one embodiment, active electrode 724 lies in a first plane, and return electrode 726 lies in a second plane, wherein the first plane is located proximal to the second plane, and the first and second planes are parallel, or substantially parallel, to each other. Active electrode 724 and return electrode 726 are separated by an electrode gap, D_(g). Typically, the electrode gap D_(g) is in the range of from about 0.010 to 0.100 inches, and more typically from about 0.020 to 0.080 inches. As shown, active electrode 724 and return electrode 726 are arranged at an acute angle ∃ with respect to the longitudinal axis of probe 700, wherein angle ∃ is in the range of from about 45° to 85°, and more typically from about 50° to 70°. In one embodiment, active electrode 724 and return electrode 726 extend a distance, D_(e) from the upper surface of electrode supports 722 a, 722 b, wherein the distance D_(e) is typically in the range of from about 0.100 to 0.200 inches, more typically from about 0.140 to 0.170 inches. The arrow marked A indicates the principal cutting direction during resection or ablation of target tissue with probe 700. During use of probe 700, current flows from active electrode 724 to return electrode 726, i.e., in a direction substantially opposite to the cutting direction. Applicant considers this arrangement to be favorable for effecting coagulation of any blood vessels severed during ablating or resecting tissue with probe 700.

[0134]FIG. 30A is an end view of an electrode assembly 720 of probe 700, according to one embodiment of the invention. Electrode assembly 720 includes active electrode 724 and return electrode 726 (e.g., FIG. 28), each of which is suspended between first and second electrode supports 722 a, 722 b. Return electrode 726 is located distally to active electrode 724, the latter being hidden by the former in FIG. 30A. Return electrode 726 includes return electrode first and second ends 726 a, 726 b, respectively, and a return electrode filament 726 c. Similarly, active electrode 724 includes active electrode first and second ends 724 a, 724 b, respectively (FIG. 30B), and an active electrode filament 724 c (e.g., FIG. 30C).

[0135]FIG. 30B schematically represents first shaft 730 and electrode assembly 720 as seen along the lines 40B-40B of FIG. 30A. First shaft 730 is bifurcated to provide first arm 732 and second arm 734. First and second electrode supports 722 a, 722 b are disposed at the distal end of first and second arms 732, 734, respectively. Active electrode first and second ends, 724 a, 724 b are arranged within first and second electrode supports 722 a, 722 b, respectively, and return electrode first and second ends, 726 a, 726 b are similarly arranged within first and second electrode supports 722 a, 722 b, respectively. FIG. 30C is a cross-sectional view of active electrode filament 724 c and return electrode filament 726 c, as seen along the lines 30C-30C of FIG. 30A, according to one embodiment of the invention. In the specific configuration depicted in FIG. 30C, return electrode filament 726 c is in the form of a round wire, while active electrode filament 724 c comprises a wire which is generally rectangular in cross-section. As shown, the long axis of active electrode filament 724 c is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of probe 700. Typically, active electrode filament 724 c has a width, W_(a) in the range of from about 0.005 to 0.050 inches, and more typically from about 0.010 to 0.020 inches. Typically, return electrode filament 726 c has a diameter in the range of from about 0.006 to 0.060 inches, and more typically from about 0.015 to 0.030 inches. The gap between active electrode filament 724 c and return electrode filament 726 c is indicated in FIG. 30C as D_(g) (see also FIG. 29).

[0136] Typically, the perimeter or circumference of return electrode filament 726 c is greater than the perimeter or circumference of active electrode filament 724 c. The greater perimeter or circumference of return electrode filament 726 c as compared to the perimeter of active electrode filament 724 c may contribute to a greater surface area for return electrode 726 as compared with that of active electrode 724, as is described in greater detail hereinbelow, e.g., with reference to FIG. 32. The relatively large surface area and smooth surface of return electrode 726, as compared with active electrode 724, decreases the likelihood of inadvertent firing from return electrode 726 upon application of a high frequency voltage between active and return electrodes 724, 726. Similarly, the relatively sharp edges of the rectangular active electrode 724 promote high current density at the surface of active electrode 724 upon application of a high frequency voltage between active and return electrodes 724, 726. Other cross-sectional shapes for active electrode 724 and return electrode 726 are possible under the invention. For example, in alternative embodiments active electrode 724 may have a cross-sectional shape as described hereinabove (e.g., with reference to FIGS. 16A-E).

[0137] FIGS. 31A-E schematically represent different shapes of active electrode 724 and return electrode 726 of probe 700, according to various embodiments of the invention. The pair of open circles, between which active electrode 724 and return electrode 726 are suspended in each of FIGS. 31A-E, schematically represent first and second electrode supports 722 a, 722 b. Thus, both active electrode 724 and return electrode 726 may be substantially U-shaped, C-shaped, D-shaped (e.g., semicircular), or V-shaped, as shown in FIGS. 31A, 41C, 41D, and 41E, respectively. FIG. 31B shows a shallow, flattened U-shape. The shape of active electrode 724 and return electrode 726 is, to some extent, a matter of design choice. Various shapes for active electrode 724 and return electrode 726 can be selected based on the width and depth of tissue to be ablated from a target site, or on the size and shape of a tissue fragment required for biopsy. For example, a deep, narrow cut can be made with substantially V-shaped electrodes (e.g., FIG. 31E), whereas a relatively broad, shallow cut can be made with electrodes having a flattened U-shape (e.g., FIG. 31B). Shapes for active electrode 724 and return electrode 726 other than those depicted in FIGS. 31A-E are also within the scope of the invention.

[0138]FIG. 32 shows a side view of probe distal end 700 b including first shaft 730, according to another aspect of the invention. In the embodiment of FIG. 32, each of first electrode support 722 a and second electrode support 722 b includes axial portion 721, a proximal curved portion 723 a, and a distal curved portion 723 b. Active electrode 724 and return electrode 726 protrude from proximal portion 723 a and distal portion 723 b, respectively. As shown, proximal portion 723 a is longer than distal portion 723 b, such that first and second electrode supports 722 a, 722 b extend preferentially along active electrode 724 as compared with return electrode 726. As a result, the length of active electrode filament 724 c is less than the length of return electrode filament 726 c. The greater length of return electrode filament 726 c, as compared with the length of active electrode filament 724 c, combined with a greater circumference or perimeter of return electrode filament 726 c, as compared to the perimeter of active electrode filament 724 c, typically results in return electrode 726 having a surface area greater than that of active electrode 724. In one embodiment, the ratio of the surface area of return electrode filament 726 c to the surface area of active electrode filament 724 c is in the range of from about 1.1:1 to about 4:1.

[0139]FIG. 33A is a side view of an attachment unit 760 disposed on elongate body 710 of an electrosurgical probe 700, according to one aspect of the invention. In one embodiment, attachment unit 760 comprises a clamp having a base 762 affixed to elongate body 710, and first and second walls 764, 766, respectively. Attachment unit 760 is adapted for affixing probe 700 to another surgical instrument, such as a resectoscope or other endoscope. In one embodiment, attachment unit 760 is adapted for affixing probe 700 to an endoscope so as to align probe 700 with various components of an endoscope. For example, probe 700 may be affixed via attachment unit 760 to an endoscope (e.g., a resectoscope (FIG. 2)) such that probe 700 can be axially reciprocated within an introducer shaft of the endoscope. Similarly, according to another aspect of the invention, probe 700 may be attached to an endoscope via attachment unit 760 such that a user of probe 700 can view electrode assembly 720, and points distal thereto (e.g., target tissue), through an eyepiece of the endoscope.

[0140]FIG. 33B is an end view of attachment unit 760 taken along the lines 43B-43B of FIG. 33A. Base 762 partially encircles elongate body 710 and is affixed thereto. Solid lines marked 764, 766 represent first and second clamp walls, respectively, with attachment unit 760 in the vacant configuration (for example, probe 700 is unattached to an endoscope). Dashed lines marked 764′, 766′ represent first and second clamp walls, respectively, with attachment unit 760 in the occupied configuration, with space S occupied, for example, by a cylindrical component of an endoscope. Attachment unit 760 may be constructed from a sheet of stainless steel, or similar material. In a specific configuration, attachment unit 760 may be affixed via base 762 to second shaft 740.

[0141]FIG. 34A schematically represents a number of steps involved in a method of resecting and harvesting a fragment of tissue from a target tissue or organ, according to the instant invention, wherein step 800 involves positioning the distal end of an electrosurgical probe in at least close proximity to the target tissue. The probe positioned during step 800 may be any one of the electrosurgical probes described hereinabove, e.g., with reference to FIGS. 1 through 33B. In one embodiment, the probe positioned during step 800 includes an electrode assembly having an active electrode and a return electrode located distal to the active electrode. In one aspect of the invention, the active electrode may be disposed between first and second arms of a bifurcated shaft. Step 802 involves delivering an electrically conductive fluid to at least one electrode. The electrically conductive fluid, which may be a gel or a liquid such as isotonic saline, provides a current flow path between the active electrode and the return electrode. The electrically conductive fluid may be delivered via a suitable fluid delivery element. The fluid delivery element may be integral with the probe, or may be a component of a separate device, as is well known in the art. Alternatively, the fluid delivery element may be integral with another surgical instrument to which the probe is attached (e.g., FIG. 2). In one embodiment, the electrically conductive fluid is delivered to the target site. In another embodiment, the probe distal end bears a distal return electrode, and an active electrode separated from the return electrode by an electrode gap, and the electrically conductive fluid is delivered to the probe distal end to submerse, or partially submerse, the active and return electrodes. In certain procedures, the electrically conductive fluid is delivered to the body region or cavity surrounding the target site prior to and/or during the procedure to submerse the target site within electrically conductive fluid. For example, in hysteroscopic procedures, the uterus may be distended with electrically conductive fluid prior to introduction of the probe and the conductive fluid is continually circulated in the uterus throughout the procedure. In TURP procedures, the urethra may be filled with electrically conductive fluid and circulated in a similar manner.

[0142] Step 804 involves applying a high frequency voltage between the active and return electrodes. The high frequency voltage applied in step 804 will typically be in the range described hereinabove. For example, in step 804 the applied voltage may be in the range of from about 50 volts RMS to 500 volts RMS, and have a frequency in the range of from about 20 KHz to 1 MHz. Step 806 involves contacting the target tissue with the probe distal end. In one embodiment, a fragment of tissue may be removed for biopsy by translating the active and return electrodes, e.g., in a proximal direction, over the surface of the target tissue (step 808). In one embodiment, the probe distal end, including the active and return electrodes, is adapted for penetration into the target tissue. Accordingly, in another embodiment, a fragment of tissue may be resected from within the bulk of the target tissue by inserting the probe distal end within the target tissue to a certain depth. The actual depth of penetration of the probe distal end within the target tissue may range from a 0.1 mm to about 1 cm., or more, depending on a number of factors, such as the type of target tissue, the condition of the tissue/symptoms of the patient, the size and configuration of the probe, and the desired number and size of the fragment(s) required for biopsy.

[0143] When appropriate, the high frequency voltage described in step 804 may be applied during step 806, for example, to allow the probe distal end to readily penetrate the target tissue. Regardless of the degree of penetration of the tissue by the probe distal end, resection of at least one tissue fragment in step 808 is typically effected via a cool ablation process involving the molecular dissociation of tissue components to form low molecular weight (e.g., gaseous) by-products. Typically, during electrosurgical ablation or resection of tissue according to the instant invention, the target tissue is exposed to a temperature in the range of from about 45° C. to 90° C., thereby avoiding or minimizing thermal damage to adjacent tissue.

[0144] In an additional step (not shown in FIG. 34A), ablation by-products may be removed from the surgical site via a suitable aspiration element, such as a suction device. Such an aspiration element may be integral with the probe, or may be a component of a separate device. Alternatively, the aspiration element may be integral with another surgical instrument to which the probe is attached (e.g., FIG. 2). Suction devices are well known in the art. Step 810 involves harvesting the at least one fragment of target tissue (resected in step 808) for tissue analysis (biopsy). In some procedures, the ablation by-products will be removed with the circulating conductive fluid. The at least one fragment of target tissue may be retrieved in step 810 by suction, circulation of a fluid, or via a mechanical device, e.g., using a forceps-like instrument.

[0145]FIG. 34B schematically represents a number of steps involved in a method which combines, in a single procedure, electrosurgical ablation of target tissue and harvesting of a resected tissue fragment according to another embodiment of the invention. In step 900, an electrosurgical probe, such as one of the embodiments described hereinabove with reference to FIGS. 1 through 33B, is advanced towards a target tissue. According to various embodiments of the invention, step 900 may involve advancing the probe towards the target tissue, percutaneously, via an incision, or via a natural opening. The probe may be so advanced towards the target tissue, either alone, or in combination with an introducer device, e.g., a cannula, or an introducer sheath of an endoscope or resectoscope. Step 902 involves positioning the probe distal end in at least close proximity to the target tissue. In one embodiment, the probe includes a shaft having an electrode assembly disposed on the shaft distal end, the electrode assembly comprising a proximal active electrode and a distal return electrode. According to one aspect of the invention, the shaft is bifurcated and includes first and second arms, the first and second arms bearing first and second electrode supports, respectively, and an active electrode is disposed between the first and second electrode supports, wherein step 902 involves positioning the active electrode on, or adjacent to, a surface of the target tissue.

[0146] Step 904 involves delivering an electrically conductive fluid to the shaft distal end, or to the target site, essentially as described for step 802 with reference to FIG. 34A, hereinabove. Step 906 involves applying a high frequency voltage between the active electrode and a return electrode, essentially as described for step 804 with reference to FIG. 34A. Step 908 involves electrosurgically removing tissue from the surgical site. Typically, the target tissue is removed via a process involving molecular dissociation of tissue components in the presence of a plasma. During step 908, the probe is typically manipulated by the surgeon (step 910), such that the active and return electrodes are translated with respect to the target tissue. Step 910 may involve manipulating the probe in one or more of a variety of different ways, depending, for example, on the desired treatment of the target tissue. In one embodiment, the probe may be manipulated in such a manner that the active electrode, or electrode assembly, brushes against a surface of the target tissue to effect vaporization of successive layers of target tissue. In this embodiment, the depth of penetration of the active electrode into the tissue will be considerably less than in the resection embodiment described above.

[0147] In one embodiment, step 910 involves manipulating the probe, such that the active electrode, or electrode assembly, is reciprocated with respect to the target tissue. In one aspect of the invention, the probe includes an electrode assembly having an active electrode and a distal return electrode, and the method involves manipulating the probe such that the electrode assembly is axially reciprocated with respect to the target tissue, whereby a slice or fragment of target tissue is resected during each proximal stroke of the reciprocating probe. During the distal stroke of the reciprocating probe, with the distal return electrode at the leading edge of the electrode assembly, any unsealed small blood vessels severed during the proximal stroke may be coagulated by the electric current flowing distally from the proximal active electrode to the return electrode.

[0148] According to another aspect of the invention, step 910 may additionally or alternatively involve manipulating the probe such that the probe distal end is inserted into the target tissue, such that the active electrode penetrates the target tissue to a suitable depth, essentially as described hereinabove for step 806 (FIG. 34A). Typically, in this embodiment, the high frequency voltage (step 906) is applied during insertion of the probe within the target tissue. Step 912 involves electrosurgically resecting a fragment of the target tissue for biopsy/tissue analysis. Typically, resection of a tissue fragment, either superficially from the surface of the target tissue, or from within the bulk of the tissue, involves the plasma-induced molecular dissociation of tissue components, as described hereinabove. Ablation by-products, together with any excess electrically conductive fluid, may be removed from the surgical site, essentially as described hereinabove with reference to FIG. 34A.

[0149] Using the combination of steps outlined for FIG. 34B, hypertrophied tissue, such as polyps or fibroids of uterine tissue, or that of an enlarged prostate, can be volumetrically removed and, during the same surgical procedure, a sample of the tissue can be removed for biopsy. Moreover, the bipolar electrosurgical removal of tissue according to the instant invention (e.g., step 908), can be precisely controlled, with little or no damage to, or stimulation of, surrounding nerves.

[0150] It is to be understood that the electrosurgical apparatus and methods of the invention are by no means limited to the specific embodiments and configurations described hereinabove with reference to the Drawings. Thus, while the exemplary embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail, by way of example and for clarity of understanding, a variety of changes, adaptations, and modifications will be apparent to those of skill in the art. Therefore, the scope of the present invention is limited solely by the appended claims. 

What is claimed is:
 1. An electrosurgical probe, comprising: a bifurcated shaft including a first arm and a second arm; a first electrically insulating electrode support disposed on the first arm distal end, and a second electrically insulating electrode support disposed on the second arm distal end; and an active electrode disposed between the first and second electrode supports.
 2. The probe of claim 1 , wherein the active electrode is arranged at a non-perpendicular angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the probe.
 3. The probe of claim 1 , wherein the active electrode comprises a substantially U-shaped wire loop.
 4. The probe of claim 1 , wherein the active electrode is configured to promote high electric field intensities at a surface of the active electrode when a high frequency voltage is applied to the active electrode.
 5. The probe of claim 1 , wherein the active electrode is roughened or pointed in order to promote high current densities at a surface of the active electrode when a high frequency voltage is applied to the active electrode.
 6. The probe of claim 1 , further comprising a return electrode, wherein the return electrode is configured to promote low current densities at a surface of the return electrode.
 7. The probe of claim 6 , wherein the return electrode is located distal to the active electrode.
 8. The probe of claim 7 , wherein the active electrode and the return electrode each comprise a filament, and each filament is selected from the group consisting of substantially U-shaped, C-shaped, D-shaped, and V-shaped.
 9. The probe of claim 6 , wherein the active electrode lies in a first plane, and the first plane is non-perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the probe.
 10. The probe of claim 9 , wherein the first plane is arranged at an angle in the range of from about 45° to 85° with respect to the longitudinal axis of the probe.
 11. The probe of claim 9 , wherein the return electrode lies in a second plane, and the second plane is substantially parallel to the first plane.
 12. The probe of claim 1 , wherein the shaft distal end is adapted for penetration into a target tissue or organ.
 13. The probe of claim 1 , wherein the shaft includes a first bend and a second bend.
 14. An electrosurgical probe for treating a target tissue of a patient, comprising: a probe proximal end and a probe distal end; an elongate body including a first shaft, the first shaft located at the probe distal end, and the first shaft bifurcated to provide a first arm and a second arm; a first electrically insulating electrode support disposed on the first arm distal end, and a second electrically insulating electrode support disposed on the second arm distal end; an active electrode disposed between the first and second electrode supports; and a return electrode disposed between the first and second electrode supports at a location distal to the active electrode.
 15. The probe of claim 14 , wherein the first and second electrode supports are disposed axially on the first and second arms, respectively.
 16. The probe of claim 14 , wherein the active electrode comprises an active electrode filament and active electrode first and second ends, the active electrode first and second ends coupled to the first and second electrode supports, respectively.
 17. The probe of claim 16 , wherein the active electrode filament is arcuate.
 18. The probe of claim 16 , wherein the active electrode filament is selected from the group consisting of substantially U-shaped, C-shaped, D-shaped, and V-shaped.
 19. The probe of claim 14 , wherein the return electrode comprises a return electrode filament and return electrode first and second ends, the return electrode first and second ends coupled to the first and second electrode supports, respectively.
 20. The probe of claim 19 , wherein the return electrode filament is selected from the group consisting of substantially U-shaped, C-shaped, D-shaped, and V-shaped.
 21. The probe of claim 14 , wherein the active electrode and the return electrode are separated by an electrode gap in the range of from about 0.010 to about 0.100 inches, and the electrode gap is substantially the same over the entire distance between the first and second electrode supports.
 22. The probe of claim 14 , wherein each of the first and second electrode supports includes a curved portion, the active electrode and the return electrode emanating from the curved portion.
 23. The probe of claim 22 , wherein each of the curved portions includes a proximal curved portion and a distal curved portion, the active electrode emanating from the proximal curved portion, and the return electrode emanating from the distal curved portion, and wherein the proximal curved portion is longer than the distal curved portion.
 24. The probe of claim 23 , wherein the return electrode includes a return electrode filament and the active electrode includes an active electrode filament, and the return electrode filament is longer than the active electrode filament.
 25. The probe of claim 16 , wherein the active electrode first and second ends lie in a first plane, and the return electrode first and second ends lie in a second plane, and the first and second planes are substantially parallel to each other.
 26. The probe of claim 14 , wherein the active electrode lies in a first plane, the return electrode lies in a second plane, and the first plane and the second plane are substantially parallel to each other.
 27. The probe of claim 26 , wherein the first plane is arranged at an angle in the range of from about 50° to 80° with respect to the longitudinal axis of the probe.
 28. The probe of claim 14 , wherein the active electrode and the return electrode are arranged at an angle in the range of from about 45° to 85° with respect to the longitudinal axis of the probe.
 29. The probe of claim 14 , wherein the active electrode and the return electrode are separated by an electrode gap in the range of from about 0.010 to about 0.100 inches.
 30. The probe of claim 14 , wherein the active electrode and the return electrode are separated by an electrode gap, and the electrode gap is substantially the same over the entire distance between the first and second electrode supports.
 31. The probe of claim 14 , wherein the first shaft includes a first bend and a second bend.
 32. The probe of claim 14 , wherein each of the first arm and the second arm includes a first bend and a second bend.
 33. The probe of claim 31 , wherein the first bend is at a first angle and the second bend is at a second angle, and the first and second angles are substantially the same.
 34. The probe of claim 33 , wherein the first angle is in the range of from about 10° to 30°.
 35. The probe of claim 31 , wherein the first bend is distal to a point of bifurcation of the first shaft, and the second bend is distal to the first bend.
 36. The probe of claim 14 , wherein the elongate body further includes a second shaft, the second shaft coupled axially to the first shaft proximal end.
 37. The probe of claim 36 , wherein the elongate body further includes a third shaft, the third shaft coupled axially to the second shaft proximal end.
 38. The probe of claim 37 , wherein the probe further includes a bipolar connector unit for independently coupling the active electrode and the return electrode to opposite poles of a high frequency power supply.
 39. The probe of claim 38 , wherein the bipolar connector unit is disposed on the third shaft.
 40. The probe of claim 37 , wherein the third shaft comprises a low friction polymer.
 41. The probe of claim 37 , wherein the third shaft comprises a material selected from the group consisting of polyethylene and polytetrafluoroethylene.
 42. The probe of claim 14 , further comprising an attachment unit for removably affixing the probe to a surgical instrument, the attachment unit disposed on the elongate body.
 43. The probe of claim 42 , wherein the surgical instrument is an endoscope.
 44. The probe of claim 43 , wherein the endoscope is a resectoscope.
 45. The probe of claim 42 , wherein the elongate body further includes a second shaft, and the attachment unit is disposed on the second shaft.
 46. The probe of claim 42 , wherein the attachment unit comprises a clamp, the clamp including a first wall, a second wall and a base, wherein the base partially encircles the elongate body.
 47. The probe of claim 14 , wherein each of the active electrode and the return electrode includes a filament, each filament comprising a metal wire.
 48. The probe of claim 14 , wherein the active electrode comprises a wire having a substantially rectangular cross-section, and having a width in the range of from about 0.005 to about 0.050 inches.
 49. The probe of claim 14 , wherein the active electrode comprises a wire having a substantially rectangular cross-section, and the long axis of the rectangle lies substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the probe.
 50. The probe of claim 14 , wherein the return electrode comprises a round wire having a diameter in the range of from about 0.005 to about 0.050 inches.
 51. The probe of claim 14 , wherein the active electrode and the return electrode comprise a metal selected from the group consisting of: molybdenum, platinum, iridium, titanium, tantalum, tungsten, stainless steel, nickel, and their alloys.
 52. The probe of claim 51 , wherein the metal comprises an alloy selected from the group consisting of: platinum/tungsten, platinum/iridium, and platinum/molybdenum.
 53. The probe of claim 14 , wherein the active electrode is coated with a material selected from the group consisting of: chromium and titanium nitride.
 54. The probe of claim 14 , wherein the active electrode comprises a rectangular wire having a width in the range of from about 0.010 to 0.020 inches, and the return electrode comprises a round wire having a diameter in the range of from about 0.015 to 0.030 inches.
 55. The probe of claim 14 , wherein the active electrode is adapted for ablating the target tissue via a cool ablation process involving molecular dissociation of the target tissue components.
 56. The probe of claim 14 , wherein the probe is adapted for ablating the target tissue during axial movement of the probe in a proximal direction, wherein ablation of the target tissue is effected via a process involving molecular dissociation of the target tissue components.
 57. The probe of claim 14 , wherein the probe is adapted for removing a fragment of the target tissue for biopsy, wherein the fragment is removed via a cool ablation process involving molecular dissociation of the target tissue components.
 58. The probe of claim 14 , wherein the first and second electrode supports each comprise an electrically insulating material selected from the group consisting of: a silicone rubber, a ceramic, and a glass.
 59. An electrosurgical probe for treating a target tissue of a patient, comprising: an elongate body including a first shaft, the first shaft distal end bifurcated to provide a first arm and a second arm; a first electrically insulating electrode support disposed on the first arm distal end, and a second electrically insulating electrode support disposed on the second arm distal end, wherein each of the first and second arms includes a first bend and a second bend; and an active electrode disposed between the first and second electrode supports.
 60. The probe of claim 59 , wherein the first bend is away from the longitudinal axis of the probe and the second bend is towards the longitudinal axis of the probe.
 61. The probe of claim 59 , wherein the first bend is at a first angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the probe and the second bend is at a second angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the probe, and wherein the first angle and the second angle are substantially equal.
 62. The probe of claim 61 , wherein the first angle is in the range of from about 10° to 35°.
 63. The probe of claim 61 , wherein the first angle is in the range of from about 15° to 25°.
 64. The probe of claim 59 , further comprising a return electrode disposed between the first and second electrode supports at a location distal to the active electrode.
 65. The probe of claim 64 , wherein the return electrode comprises a round wire.
 66. The probe of claim 59 , wherein the active electrode comprises a wire having a substantially rectangular cross-section.
 67. The probe of claim 64 , wherein the active electrode and the return electrode comprise a metal selected from the group consisting of: molybdenum, platinum, iridium, titanium, tantalum, tungsten, stainless steel, nickel, and their alloys.
 68. The probe of claim 64 , wherein the active electrode and the return electrode are arranged at an angle in the range of from about 45° to 85° with respect to the longitudinal axis of the probe.
 69. An electrosurgical probe for treating a target tissue of a patient, comprising: an elongate body including a first shaft, the first shaft bifurcated to provide a first arm and a second arm; a first electrically insulating electrode support disposed on the first arm distal end, and a second electrically insulating electrode support disposed on the second arm distal end; and an active electrode disposed between the first and second electrode supports, wherein the active electrode is arranged at an acute angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the probe.
 70. The probe of claim 69 , wherein the active electrode is arranged at an angle in the range of from about 45° to 85° with respect to the longitudinal axis of the probe.
 71. The probe of claim 69 , wherein the active electrode is arranged at an angle in the range of from about 50° to 70° with respect to the longitudinal axis of the probe.
 72. The probe of claim 69 , further comprising a return electrode disposed between the first and second electrode supports at a location distal to the active electrode, wherein the return electrode is arranged at an acute angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the probe.
 73. The probe of claim 72 , wherein the active electrode lies in a first plane, and the return electrode lies in a second plane, and the first and second planes are substantially parallel to each other.
 74. A method of treating a target tissue of a patient using an electrosurgical probe, the method comprising: a) positioning the probe distal end in at least close proximity to the target tissue, wherein the probe includes an active electrode, and a return electrode located distal to the active electrode; b) applying a high frequency voltage between the active and return electrodes, the high frequency voltage sufficient to ablate a portion of the target tissue; and c) manipulating the probe distal end such that the electrode assembly moves with respect to the target tissue, wherein at least a portion of the target tissue is ablated.
 75. The method of claim 74 , wherein the tissue ablated in said step c) is vaporized to form low molecular weight ablation by-products.
 76. The method of claim 74 , wherein said step c) comprises axially reciprocating the electrode assembly with respect to the target tissue.
 77. The method of claim 76 , wherein during said step c) each proximal stroke of the reciprocating electrode assembly removes a layer or fragment of the target tissue.
 78. The method of claim 74 , further comprising the step of: d) prior to said step b), advancing the probe distal end towards the target tissue.
 79. The method of claim 78 , wherein the target tissue comprises tissue of the prostate gland, and said step d) comprises advancing the probe distal end transurethrally.
 80. The method of claim 78 , wherein the target tissue comprises uterine tissue, and said step d) comprises advancing the probe distal end through the cervix of the uterus.
 81. The method of claim 74 , further comprising the step of: e) prior to said step b), delivering an electrically conductive fluid to the electrode assembly or to the target tissue to provide a current flow path between the active electrode and the return electrode.
 82. The method of claim 81 , wherein said step b) causes electric current to flow through the electrically conductive fluid in a distal direction.
 83. The method of claim 74 , wherein the high frequency voltage applied in said step b) is in the range of from about 50 volts RMS to about 500 volts RMS, at a frequency in the range of from about 20 KHz to about 1 MHz.
 84. The method of claim 74 , wherein the tissue ablated in said step c) is vaporized at a temperature in the range of from about 45° C. to 90° C. to form low molecular weight ablation by-products, and the method further comprises: f) aspirating the low molecular weight ablation by-products from the target site.
 85. The method of claim 74 , further comprising the step of: g) resecting a fragment of the target tissue; and h) harvesting the fragment of target tissue for tissue analysis.
 86. The method of claim 85 , wherein said step g) involves inserting the probe distal end within the target tissue to a depth of at least 4 mm.
 87. The method of claim 85 , wherein said step g) involves dragging the active electrode over the target tissue.
 88. The method of claim 86 , wherein said step g) involves electrosurgical molecular dissociation of target tissue components.
 89. The method of claim 74 , wherein the probe distal end includes a bifurcated shaft having first and second arms, a first electrode support and a second electrode support disposed on the first and second arms, respectively, the active electrode disposed between the first and second electrode supports, and the return electrode disposed between the first and second electrode supports.
 90. The method of claim 74 , wherein the probe further comprises an attachment unit adapted for attaching the probe to an endoscope.
 91. The method of claim 74 , wherein the active electrode lies in a first plane and the return electrode lies in a second plane, wherein the first plane and the second plane are substantially parallel to each other.
 92. The method of claim 74 , wherein the active electrode and the return electrode are arranged at an acute angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the probe.
 93. The method of claim 89 , wherein each of the first arm and the second arm includes a first bend and a second bend.
 94. A method of treating hypertrophied target tissue of a patient, comprising: a) positioning the distal end of an electrosurgical probe in at least close proximity to the target tissue, the probe including an electrode assembly disposed on the probe distal end, the electrode assembly having an active electrode and a return electrode, the return electrode spaced distally from the active electrode; b) applying a high frequency voltage between the active and return electrodes, the high frequency voltage sufficient to ablate the target tissue; and c) reciprocating the probe distal end with respect to the target tissue, wherein at least a portion of the target tissue is electrosurgically ablated.
 95. The method of claim 94 , wherein, during said step c), at least one fragment of the target tissue is resected during proximal motion of the electrode assembly.
 96. The method of claim 94 , further comprising: d) prior to or after said step c), inserting the probe distal end within the target tissue; e) thereafter, while applying the high frequency voltage of said step b), electrosurgically resecting at least one fragment of the target tissue; and f) harvesting the at least one fragment of the target tissue for biopsy.
 97. The method of claim 94 , further comprising: g) delivering an electrically conductive fluid to the electrode assembly, wherein the electrically conductive fluid provides a current flow path between the active electrode and the return electrode, and said step b) causes electric current to flow through the electrically conductive fluid in a distal direction.
 98. The method of claim 96 , wherein said step d) comprises inserting the probe within the target tissue to a depth of at least 4 mm.
 99. The method of claim 94 , wherein the probe distal end includes a bifurcated shaft having first and second arms, and a first electrode support and a second electrode support disposed on the first and second arms, respectively.
 100. The method of claim 94 , wherein the return electrode and the active electrode each comprise a wire loop.
 101. The method of claim 94 , wherein the active electrode lies in a first plane and the return electrode lies in a second plane, wherein the first plane and the second plane are substantially parallel to each other.
 102. The method of claim 94 , wherein the active electrode and the return electrode are arranged at an acute angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the probe.
 103. An electrosurgical probe, comprising: a shaft having a shaft proximal end and a shaft distal end; and an electrode assembly disposed on the shaft, the electrode assembly including an active electrode and a return electrode, wherein the return electrode is spaced distally from the active electrode.
 104. The probe of claim 103 , wherein the active electrode and the return electrode each comprise a wire loop.
 105. The probe of claim 104 , wherein each of the active electrode and the return electrode is substantially U-shaped, C-shaped, D-shaped, or V-shaped.
 106. The probe of claim 103 , wherein the active electrode is spaced from the return electrode by an electrode gap in the range of from about 0.010 to about 0.100 inches.
 107. The probe of claim 106 , wherein the active electrode comprises an active electrode filament, and the electrode gap is substantially constant over the entire length of the active electrode filament.
 108. The probe of claim 103 , wherein the shaft includes a first bend and a second bend.
 109. The probe of claim 103 , wherein the active electrode and the return electrode are arranged at an acute angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the probe.
 110. The probe of claim 103 , further comprising a first electrode support and a second electrode support, wherein the active electrode and the return electrode are disposed between the first electrode support and the second electrode support.
 111. A bipolar electrosurgical probe, comprising: a shaft having a shaft proximal end and a shaft distal end; and a first loop electrode and a second loop electrode disposed at the shaft distal end.
 112. The probe of claim 111 , wherein the first loop electrode comprises an active electrode and the second loop electrode comprises a return electrode, and the return electrode is spaced distally from the active electrode.
 113. The probe of claim 112 , wherein the active electrode lies in a first plane and the return electrode lies in a second plane, and the first plane is located proximal to the second plane.
 114. The probe of claim 113 , wherein the first plane and the second plane are substantially parallel to each other.
 115. The probe of claim 111 , wherein the first loop electrode and the second loop electrode each comprise a wire filament, each wire filament comprising a metal selected from the group consisting of: molybdenum, platinum, iridium, titanium, tantalum, tungsten, stainless steel, nickel, and their alloys.
 116. The probe of claim 115 , wherein each wire filament is substantially U-shaped, C-shaped, D-shaped, or V-shaped.
 117. The probe of claim 112 , wherein the active electrode is spaced proximally from the return electrode by an electrode gap, the electrode gap in the range of from about 0.010 to about 0.100 inches.
 118. The probe of claim 117 , wherein the electrode gap is substantially constant over the entire length of the active electrode.
 119. The probe of claim 111 , wherein the first loop electrode and the second loop electrode are arranged at an acute angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the probe.
 120. An electrode assembly for electrosurgical treatment of a target tissue, comprising: an active electrode arranged between a first electrode support and a second electrode support; and a return electrode disposed distal to the active electrode.
 121. The electrode assembly of claim 120 , wherein the return electrode is arranged between the first electrode support and the second electrode support.
 122. The electrode assembly of claim 120 , wherein the active electrode comprises an active electrode first end, an active electrode second end and an active electrode filament, the active electrode first end emanating from the first electrode support, the active electrode second end emanating from the second electrode support, and the active electrode filament suspended between the first electrode support and the second electrode support.
 123. The electrode assembly of claim 122 , wherein the active electrode filament is substantially C-shaped, D-shaped, U-shaped, or V-shaped.
 124. The electrode assembly of claim 123 , wherein the return electrode comprises a return electrode filament, the active electrode filament spaced proximally from the return electrode filament by an electrode gap, and the electrode gap remains substantially constant over a distance between the active electrode first end and the active electrode second end.
 125. The electrode assembly of claim 124 , wherein the electrode gap is in the range of from about 0.010 to about 0.100 inches.
 126. The electrode assembly of claim 120 , wherein the first and second electrode supports each comprise an electrically insulating material selected from the group consisting of a silicone rubber, a ceramic, and a glass.
 127. The electrode assembly of claim 120 , wherein the active electrode lies in a first plane and the return electrode lies in a second plane, wherein the first plane is located proximal to the second plane.
 128. The electrode assembly of claim 120 , wherein each of the active electrode and the return electrode is in the form of a wire loop.
 129. The electrode assembly of claim 128 , wherein each wire loop comprises a metal selected from the group consisting of: molybdenum, platinum, iridium, titanium, tantalum, tungsten, stainless steel, nickel, and their alloys. 